After battling breast cancer, Rachael Lillis, the original English voice actress for some of the films, PokemonsOne of the most iconic characters of , has died at the age of 46. The news, a Social media post from Veronica Taylorfirst voiced Pokemons anime hero Ash Ketchum and appeared alongside Lillis in the early seasons of the series. Lillis was known for her roles as Ash's traveling companion Misty, Team Rocket's Jessie, and many other Pokémon throughout the series.
Taylor's post confirmed that Lillis passed away on August 10. Lillis' breast cancer diagnosis was announced in May and GoFundMe campaign was established to help raise money for his medical care. Donors helped raise over $96,000.
“Rachael was so grateful for all the generous love and support she received while battling cancer,” Taylor wrote in her post. “She truly made a positive difference. Her family would like to thank you as they use this time to grieve privately.”
As news of Lillis' death spread on the internet, Pokemons Fans and other voice actors have shared their own tributes to him, explaining how his voice acting influenced their childhood memories while watching the early seasons of the anime.
Lillis' run as Misty and Jessie ended in 2006 Pokemons anime dub production shifted from 4Kids to The Pokémon Company, resulting in the re-casting of nearly every character from the show. However, Lillis' voice, Pokemons media, as she also provides the voice for Jigglypuff, and her performance as a singing Normal/Fairy-type Pokémon has been used in more recent games and appearances, such as in 2018 Super Smash Bros. Ultimate and 2019 Detective Pikachu film.
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