Rachael Lillis, the voice of Pokémon’s Misty and Jessie, dead at 46

An iconic voice of so many childhoods

The world of Pokémon is mourning the loss of one of its most famous voice actors who brought iconic main characters Misty and Jessie to life on screen.

Lillis featured in the Pokémon series since its very beginning, debuting in 1999 as one of protagonist Ash's main companions, Misty, while also voicing long-time antagonist Jessie of Team Rocket fame.

The voice actress sadly died from breast cancer on 10 August.

The news was confirmed today by the voice actress behind main character Ash Ketchum, Veronica Taylor, who said in a letter: "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.

"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 work as a voice actress in 1997 and pursued voice over work in a wide variety of video games audiobooks and TV shows, although will be remembered worldwide most fondly for her roles in the Pokémon series.

Countless numbers of Pokémon fans took to social media to express their sorrow and gratitude to a voice that was such a large part of their childhoods.

One person wrote: "The original English Misty and Jessie. She was a huge part of my Saturday mornings as a kid in the early 2000s. May she rest in peace."

Another user said: "Rest in Peace. Such an inspiration and definitely taken too early. Thank you for all the silly memories.

"I could never explain how much the sweet characters she voiced helped me through my childhood. Will be forever grateful. Sending lots of love your way!!!"

Meanwhile one person simply put: "Rest in peace misty thank you for making my childhood."

Misty and Jessie were both fiery characters that Lillis executed perfectly, making both characters renowned in the Pokémon world.

Although Misty parted ways with Ash and third companion Brock in 2002 after 273 episodes, the character would return occasionally for cameos down the years.

Meanwhile Jessie has more or less been an ever-present character through the enormously popular anime.

Since its beginning, 1269 episodes of the Japanese TV show have been made including multiple feature-length films.