The anime world is in mourning over the news of the passing of its beloved Pokémon voice actor Rachel Lilley.
Lillis, best known for her iconic roles as Misty and Jessie in the popular Pokémon television series, has passed away.
His colleague and friend Veronica Taylor, who voiced Ash Ketchum and his mother Delia in the first eight seasons, was the one to break the news.
Taylor paid tribute to Lillis on social media, saying “We all know Rachel Lillis from the many great roles she has played. She filled our Saturday mornings and before/after school hours with her beautiful voice, her great comic timing and her remarkable acting skills. #RachelLillis”
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The Pokémon franchise, which began in 1996, quickly became one of the biggest multimedia properties globally, spanning video games, trading cards, films, and most notably its anime series.
The show follows the adventures of Ash Ketchum and his faithful Pokémon companion, Pikachu, as they travel around the world, catching Pokémon and battling other Trainers. Lillis quickly impressed fans as Misty, one of Ash’s first companions and a determined Water-type Pokémon trainer.
Rachel Lilley was battling cancer
Taylor also shared an official statement about Lillis’ passing: “It is with a very heavy heart that I share the news that Rachel Lillis passed away on Saturday evening, August 10, 2024. Rachel was an extraordinary talent, a bright light that shone through her voice when she spoke or sang. She will always be remembered for the many animated roles she played, most beloved being her iconic performances as Pokémon’s Misty and Jessie.”
“Rachel was so grateful for the generous love and support given to her while she was battling cancer. It really made a positive difference. Her family would also like to thank you as they grieve privately at this time. A memorial is being planned in the future.”
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“I’m not sure how this very dark void will be filled now that her light no longer shines through it. Like the shooting stars in the Perseids, Rachel was a magnificent wonder and truly special. She shone too brightly and disappeared too soon. She will live on in our memories for eternity,” the Ash Ketchum voice actor concluded.
