Rachael Lillis, known for voicing the characters Misty and Jessie in the English version of the “Pokémon” TV series, has passed away at the age of 55.
“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,” Orr stated.
“Unfortunately, regrettably, I was not with her, it was just this past week that she was starting to decline. This was unexpected and we are completely grief-stricken,” she added.
The fundraising page garnered $100,724 at the time of writing. Orr said the funds will be used for remaining medical bills, a memorial service, and “causes in her name-specifically towards efforts to combat cancer.”
Some initial media reports put her age at 46. However her IBDB entry shows she was born in 1969—confirmed by her sister to the New York Times.
Veronica Taylor, who voiced the character Ash Ketchum in Pokémon, shared a heartfelt tribute on Monday. She said Lillis will be “forever remembered for the many animated roles she played.”
“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. Her family also wishes to thank you as they take this time to grieve privately,” she added.
Taylor noted that a memorial for Lillis is being planned for a future date.
The Pokémon Company International also paid tribute to Lillis, saying she will be “remembered for generations to come.” The company also extended its condolences to her family and friends.
“Her performance in the Pokémon animated series will be cherished by the many fans who grew up with the characters she brought to life with her special talent,” it added.
Lillis, who lived in Los Angeles, is best known for voicing Misty, a friend of Ash—the main character of the popular Japanese anime—and Jessie, a member of villainous Team Rocket, in the English version of the Pokémon TV Series from 1997 to 2015, spanning over 400 episodes.
Aside from her iconic voice roles in Pokémon, Lillis also voiced Faragonda and Lucy on “Winx Club,” Danny on “Sonic X,” and Hakura Kasugano on “Midori Days.” The actress also had voice roles on “Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles” and many other animated television shows and films.
