Rachael Lillis was best known for voicing Misty and Jessie in ‘Pokémon’
“Pokémon” voice actress Rachael Lillis has passed away at the age of 46.
Lillis’ sister, Laurie Orr, shared the heartbreaking news with Fox News Digital on Monday. “It is indeed a tough time right now,” Orr expressed. “My sweet little sister, Rachael (‘Rae’), passed away peacefully on the evening of August 10th.” Orr added, “She had a kind heart and truly appreciated all the love and concern from friends and fans worldwide.”
Rachael Lillis was renowned for her roles as Misty and Jessie in “Pokémon.” (Rachael Lillis/X)
Her co-star, Veronica Taylor, who voiced Ash in “Pokémon,” honored Rachael on social media, mentioning that Rachael had been battling cancer. Taylor wrote, “It is with a very heavy heart that I share the news of the passing of Rachael Lillis on Saturday evening, August 10, 2024. Rachael’s extraordinary talent and bright light shone through her voice whether speaking or singing. She will forever be remembered for her iconic roles as Misty and Jessie in ‘Pokémon.’”
Reflecting on Lillis’ character, Taylor added, “Rachael was so thankful for all the generous love and support as she fought cancer. It truly made a positive difference. Her family also wishes to thank everyone and asks for privacy during this time of grief. A memorial will be planned for a future date.”
Rachael Lillis famously voiced Jessie and Misty in “Pokémon.” (Edward Liu)
In memory of her sister, Orr has started a GoFundMe page. “With a heavy heart, I regret to say that Rachael has passed away. She passed peacefully Saturday night, without pain, and for that, we are grateful. She is with God, the angels, and family that has passed before her, surrounded by infinite Love,” Orr wrote in the fundraiser’s description.
According to the Hollywood Reporter, Rachael Lillis was born in July 1978 in Niagara Falls, New York. She voiced Misty and Jessie in “Pokémon” for 423 episodes from 1997 to 2015.
Ash, Pikachu, and Misty (background) in “Pokémon 3.” (Warner Bros. Pictures)
Besides her work in “Pokémon,” Rachael Lillis also lent her voice to other prominent shows such as “Your Lie in April,” “Hunter x Hunter,” “Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles,” “Mobile Suit Gundam Unicorn,” and “Guardian of Darkness.”
