Renowned Pokémon Voice Actress Rachael Lillis Passes Away at 55
The voice acting community and Pokémon fans worldwide mourn the loss of Rachael Lillis, the talented performer behind iconic characters Misty and Jessie in the beloved Pokémon anime. Lillis passed away peacefully on August 10, 2024, at the age of 55, after a brave battle with breast cancer.
Heartfelt Tributes Pour In
The news of Lillis' passing was shared by her sister, Laurie Orr, on their GoFundMe page. Orr expressed gratitude for the overwhelming support received from fans and friends, noting that Lillis was deeply touched by the outpouring of love. The GoFundMe campaign, established to assist with medical expenses, has already surpassed $100,000 in donations. Remaining funds will cover medical bills, a memorial service, and support cancer-related charities in Lillis’ memory.
Fellow voice actors and colleagues have also shared heartfelt tributes. Veronica Taylor, the voice of Ash Ketchum, described Lillis as an extraordinary talent with an unparalleled kindness. Tara Sands, the voice of Bulbasaur, echoed similar sentiments, noting Lillis' profound impact on many lives.
Fans Remember a Beloved Voice
Social media is filled with tributes from fans remembering Lillis' contributions to their childhoods. Beyond her Pokémon roles, she is also fondly remembered for her work in "Revolutionary Girl Utena" and "Ape Escape 2."
A Legacy of Talent
Born July 8, 1969, in Niagara Falls, New York, Lillis honed her vocal skills through opera training. Her impressive career included voicing characters in 423 episodes of Pokémon (1997-2015), Jigglypuff in the Super Smash Bros. series, and in the 2019 film "Detective Pikachu." A memorial service is planned for a later date. Rachael Lillis' legacy as a gifted voice actress and kind soul will continue to inspire.
