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Voice actor Rachael Lillis died following a battle with breast cancer on Saturday (Aug. 10). She was 46.
The tragic news was shared in a statement on X from Veronica Taylor, her Pokémon co-star on Monday, in which Taylor deemed the late Lillis an “extraordinary talent” and “a bright light that shone through her voice whether speaking or singing,” per Variety.
“She will be forever remembered for the many animated roles she played, with her iconic performances as Pokémon‘s Misty and Jessie being the most beloved,” Taylor continued. “Rachael was so thankful for all of the generous love and support that was given to her as she battled with cancer. It truly made a positive difference.”
Taylor, who voiced Ash, highlighted Lillis’ family’s gratitude “as they take this time to grieve privately,” and noted that “a memorial is being planned for a future date.” She also shared that she “was lucky enough to know Rachael as a friend,” praising her “unlimited kindness and compassion,” “great sense of humor,” and intelligence and memory.
“I am not sure how this very dark void will be filled now that her light no longer shines in it,” Taylor penned. “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.”
Per IMDb, Lillis worked on 423 episodes of the Pokémon series from 1997 until 2015. Lillis lent to her voice to a slew of other Pokémon titles outside of the flagship series, among which were Pokémon: The First Movie (1998), Pokémon Heroes (2002), and Pokémon Chronicles (2001-2004).
According to Variety and Deadline, Lillis was diagnosed with breast cancer in May of this year.
Aside from her work on the Pokémon franchise, she earned credits on programs such as Shaman King, Sonic X, Winx Club, Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles, Dinosaur King and Hunter x Hunter. Her work also transcended TV and movies and was featured in popular video game titles such as Super Smash Bros. and Pac-Man and the Ghostly Adventures.
