Rachel Lillis, the voice actress who starred in several “Pokémon” films and TV series as characters Misty, Jessie and more, died on Aug. 10. She was 46.
Lillis was diagnosed with breast cancer in May. Veronica Taylor, the “Pokemon” star who voiced Lillis as lead character Ash Ketchum, posted a statement on X on Monday morning announcing Lillis’ death.
“It is with a very heavy heart that I share the news of Rachel Lillis’ passing on Saturday evening, August 10, 2024,” Taylor wrote. “Rachel was an extraordinary talent, a bright light that shone through her voice whether she was speaking or singing. She will be forever remembered for the many animated roles she played, with her iconic performances as Misty and Jessie from the most beloved “Pokémon” franchises. Rachel was so grateful for all the generous love and support you gave her during her battle with cancer. It truly made a positive difference. Her family would also like to thank you as they take this time to grieve privately. A memorial is being planned at a future date.”
Lilis began voice acting in the 1990s and has appeared in hundreds of TV shows, anime series, video games, and more through the late 2000s. She voiced Misty, a gym leader who specializes in aquatic creatures, in the original “Pokémon” anime in 1998. Misty became one of the most popular characters in the early “Pokémon” universe, alongside Ash, Pikachu, and their friend Brock. Lilis also voiced Jessie, one half of the evil Team Rocket, alongside her teammate James and the talking Meowth.
Pokémon Pink has brought to life the singing Jigglypuff, as well as many other creatures. Lilis voiced Jigglypuff in Nintendo’s popular Super Smash Bros. fighting game series in all four installments. She also voiced the Pokémon Golden in the games. Lilis appeared in the 1999 Pokémon: The First Movie as Misty and Jessie, as well as Pokémon: The Movie 2000, The Return of Mewtwo, The Talisman of Unon, Pokémon 4 Ever, Pokémon Champions, Jirachi’s Wish Maker, Destiny Deoxys, Lucario and the Mystery of Mewmew, and more.
“We all know Rachel Lillis from the many wonderful roles she played. She filled Saturday mornings and before- and after-school hours with her beautiful voice, her brilliant comedic timing, and her amazing acting skills,” Taylor wrote. “I was lucky enough to know Rachel as a friend. She had boundless kindness and compassion, right up until the very end. She had a wonderful sense of humor, was wonderful to be around, was incredibly smart, and had a wonderful memory. She worked hard and cared deeply. I’m not sure how to fill this dark void now that her light is no longer shining. Like the shooting stars in the Perseids, Rachel was truly remarkable and special. She burned too brightly and was gone too soon. She will live on in our memories forever.”
Aside from “Pokémon”, Lilis has also had voice roles in “Your Lie in April”, “Hunter x Hunter”, “Winx Club” and many more.
. “Professional creator. Lifelong thinker. Reader. Beer buff. Troublemaker. Evil problem solver.”