On Monday, August 12, 2024, it was announced that Rachael Lillis, the English voice actress known for her roles as Misty and Jessie in the Pokémon television anime series, had passed away at the age of 46. Lillis had passed away on the evening of Saturday, August 10, as revealed by her co-star Veronica Taylor, who voices protagonist Ash Ketchum, on Monday morning.
Taylor also expressed her appreciation for the outpouring of support from fans during this difficult time for Lillis’ family. She also extended her condolences, along with fellow co-star Eric Stuart (known for voicing Brock and James), to the family. Lillis passed away from breast cancer, which she was diagnosed with in May 2024. In order to assist with her medical expenses, a GoFundMe campaign was set up and shared by many of her fellow actors.
Pokémon Voice Actress Succumbs to Breast Cancer Spreading to Spine
Despite the GoFundMe campaign for the Pokémon star’s breast cancer diagnosis being launched, it was discovered that the cancer had already spread to her spine. This resulted in her struggling to walk and being confined to a Los Angeles nursing home for care since late January. Unfortunately, the noise in the home made it difficult for her to rest. Tragically, her death was announced on Monday morning.
Lillis played numerous roles in the television anime series, which included voicing the iconic characters Jigglypuff and other titular creatures. However, her most renowned roles were Misty and Jessie, who were integral to the early seasons and versions of the anime franchise. As both an actress and for her characters, Lillis was a crucial figure in the series. In addition to Misty and Jessie, she also lent her voice to Vulpix, Goldeen, Venonat, Torchic, and Beautifly.
In addition to the world famous franchise, Lillis’ contributions also reached beyond its boundaries. For instance, she lent her voice to the main character of Revolutionary Girl Utena, Utena Tenjo, as well as Martina in Slayers Next, Micott Bartsch in Mobile Suit Gundam Unicorn, Nagi Kirima in Boogiepop Phantom, Yuriko Star in The Irresponsible Captain Tylor, Kanaka Ohno in Genshiken, and Ami Kurimoto in DNA².
Lillis was also credited in various video games, with most of her work centered on her iconic roles as Misty, Jessie, Jigglypuff, and other Pokémon characters and creatures. She also lent her voice to Jelanda, Lyseria, and Mysteria in Valkyrie Profile, portrayed Natalie in Ape Escape 2, and voiced Ms. Globular in Pac-Man and the Ghostly Adventures. Additionally, she was involved in an unmentioned role in Lego Jurassic World.
Born in 1978 in Dallas, Texas in the United States, Lillis began studying acting in Boston and New York City while also gaining experience through theater productions, animated series, and independent films. After initially being based in New York, Lillis relocated to Los Angeles in 2013.
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