Rachael Lillis

RIP to the Iconic Voice of Pokémon's Misty and Jessie, Rachael Lillis

The world has lost a cherished talent as Rachael Lillis, voice of Pokémon's Misty & Jessie, passes away at 46. 💔 Let's cherish her legacy!

RIP to the Iconic Voice of Pokémon's Misty and Jessie, Rachael Lillis

The world has lost a cherished talent as Rachael Lillis, best known for voicing iconic characters Misty and Jessie in the beloved Pokémon series, has died at the age of 46. Lillis passed away on August 10, after bravely battling breast cancer since May 2024. Her passing was announced by her fellow Pokémon co-star, Veronica Taylor, who voiced the lead character Ash Ketchum, in a heartfelt post on social media.

Rachael Lillis brought life to Misty, a spirited Pokémon trainer and one of Ash's original traveling companions. With her fiery red hair and tomboyish demeanor, Misty became an iconic character in the Pokémon franchise. Lillis also voiced Jessie, one half of the mischievous Team Rocket duo, bringing a unique blend of sass and charm to the role. Her contributions extended beyond Pokémon as she lent her voice to characters in Revolutionary Girl Utena and Your Lie in April.

Born and raised in Niagara Falls, New York, Lillis had always harbored dreams of becoming a voice actress. She moved to New York City to pursue her passion, and her dedication paid off when she landed the roles that would define her career. Lillis' talent and commitment made her a beloved figure in the anime community, and her work has left an indelible mark on the hearts of fans around the world.

Outside of her professional achievements, Lillis was known for her warmth and kindness. She was an advocate for animal rights and often volunteered at local shelters. Her generosity and love for animals were as much a part of her legacy as her voice roles.

Here's a fun fact: Did you know that Misty's signature Pokémon, Psyduck, who often confused Misty with its persistent headaches, became even more lovable thanks to Lillis' heartfelt performance? Fans would look forward to the comedic relief Misty and Psyduck’s interactions would bring to the show.

Another interesting tidbit: Jessie’s flamboyant and over-the-top personality was inspired by Lillis’ own flair for drama and theatrics. She would often joke during recordings about how much she related to Jessie’s dramatic flair, making the character all the more authentic and unforgettable.

Rachael Lillis' legacy will continue to inspire and touch the hearts of many. Her unique voice and vibrant characters will live on in the memories of Pokémon fans, both old and new.