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 actress 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 courageous battle with breast cancer.
Heartfelt Tributes Flood In
The news of Lillis' passing was shared by her sister, Laurie Orr, on their GoFundMe page. The campaign, which raised over $100,000, will now be used to cover medical expenses, plan a memorial service, and support cancer research in Lillis' memory. Orr expressed gratitude for the overwhelming support from fans and friends, noting Lillis' joy in connecting with her audience at conventions.
Fellow voice actors and colleagues also shared heartfelt tributes. Veronica Taylor, the voice of Ash Ketchum, described Lillis as an extraordinary talent with an exceptional voice. Tara Sands, the voice of Bulbasaur, echoed the sentiment, expressing condolences and noting Lillis' peace in her final moments.
A Legacy of Beloved Characters
Beyond her iconic Pokémon roles, Lillis' voice acting credits include Utena in "Revolutionary Girl Utena" and Natalie in "Ape Escape 2." Her remarkable voice graced 423 episodes of Pokémon between 1997 and 2015, and she also voiced Jigglypuff in the Super Smash Bros. series and the 2019 film "Detective Pikachu." Lillis’ impressive career spanned decades, showcasing her versatility and talent.
Born in Niagara Falls, New York, on July 8, 1969, Lillis honed her vocal skills through opera training in college. A memorial service is planned to celebrate her life and legacy. Her contributions to the world of voice acting and the enduring impact of her performances will be fondly remembered by countless fans.
