Rachael Lillis, ‘Pokémon’ Star Who Voiced Misty and Jessie, Dies at 46

Rachael Lillis, a voice actor who starred in many “Pokémon” films and series as the characters Misty, Jessie and more, died Aug. 10. She was 46.

Lillis was diagnosed with breast cancer in May 2024. Veronica Taylor, Lillis’ “Pokémon” co-star who voiced the lead character Ash Ketchum, posted a statement on X Monday morning that announced Lillis’ death.

“It is with a very heavy heart that I share the news of the passing of Rachael Lillis on Saturday evening, 10 August 2024,” Taylor wrote. “Rachael was an extraordinary talent, a bright light that shone through her voice whether speaking or singing. She will be forever remembered for the many animated roles she played, with her iconic performances as ‘Pokemon‘s’ Misty and Jessie being the most beloved. Rachael was so thankful for all the generous love and support that was given to her as she battled cancer. It truly made a positive difference. Her family also wishes to thank you as they take this time to grieve privately. A memorial is being planned for a future date.”

Lillis began voice acting in the 1990s and appeared in hundreds of TV shows, anime series, video games and more through the late 2010s. She voiced Misty, the gym leader who specializes in water-type creatures, in the original “Pokémon” anime in 1998. Misty became one of the most popular characters in the early “Pokémon” universe, alongside Ash, his Pikachu and their friend Brock. Lillis also voiced Jessie, one half of the villainous Team Rocket alongside her colleague James and their talking Meowth. She also brought Jigglypuff, the adorable, singing Pokémon, to life, in addition to several others.

“We all know Rachael Lillis from the many wonderful roles she played. She filled our Saturday mornings and before/after school hours with her beautiful voice, her terrific comic timing, and her remarkable acting skills,” Taylor wrote. “I was lucky enough to know Rachael as a friend. She had unlimited kindness and compassion, even until the very end. She had a great sense of humor, was wonderful to be with, incredibly intelligent, and had such a memory. She worked hard and cared deeply. I am not sure how this very dark void will be filled now that her light no longer shines in it. Like the shooting stars in the Perseids, Rachael was a magnificent wonder and truly special. She burned bright and vanished too soon. She will live on in our memories for eternity.”