Pokémon Fans React To The Heartbreaking Death Of Voice Actor Rachael Lillis

Rachael Lillis, a prolific voice actress best known for portraying Misty and Team Rocket's Jessie in the beloved "Pokémon" anime, has passed away at the age of 46. The news was first shared on social media by fellow "Pokémon" performer Veronica Taylor, who played Ash Ketchum in the first seasons of the series' U.S. dub. "It is with a very heavy heart that I share the news of the passing of Rachael Lillis on Saturday evening, 10 August, 2024, " wrote Taylor, adding, "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."

We all know Rachael Lillis from the many wonderful roles she played. She filled our Saturday mornings and before/after school hours with her beautiful voice, her terrific comic timing, and her remarkable acting skills. #RachaelLillis pic.twitter.com/XOjFqY0C1L

— Veronica Taylor (@TheVeronicaT) August 12, 2024

Lillis revealed her breast cancer diagnosis back in May of this year, around which time her sister set up a GoFundMe campaign to pay for her ongoing treatment. The GoFundMe eventually raised around $96,000 from adoring fans, many of whom reached out to Lillis on social media when she was unable to make it to her scheduled convention appearances this summer. Those same fans, along with some of Lillis' former co-stars and collaborators have posted their condolences in the wake of Lillis' death.

The outpouring of love and support from "Pokémon" fans was almost instantaneous, with hundreds of posts celebrating Lillis' work quickly spreading across social media. "While she had many other incredible roles, growing up with the Pokémon anime wouldn't have been the same without her and her amazing talent," posted YouTuber and voice actor Leonhart, who fans will likely know for his "Pokémon"-centric videos. Some fans expressed heartbreak at the fact that Eric Stuart is now the only remaining voice actor from the original Team Rocket trio, while others took a moment to spotlight the many different characters Lillis played throughout her career.

Goodbye and thank you for a childhood of memories, Rachael Lillis 😭 pic.twitter.com/77QjziIlH4

— s1000rr (@coff_ee10) August 12, 2024

The owner of the official X account for the long-running Pokémon fan community Bulbagarden also expressed their condolences, also asking Veronica Taylor if fans will be able to continue donating to Lillis' loved ones or a charity in her name. Naturally, many other fans have begun sharing clips of their favorite moments from Lillis' tenure in "Pokémon."

With recent news of the passing Rachael Lillis, I must share my favorite voice acting moment from her.

The level or genuine emotion she put into Misty during this scene is just beautiful. pic.twitter.com/ImV7NAcBNn

— ChikoCheez (@ChikoritaCheez) August 12, 2024

Eric Stuart, who worked with Lillis on "Pokémon" as the voice of Brock and James (the other half of Team Rocket), also offered some kind words: "She was one of the funniest, sweetest, kindest people. My dear friend for so many years. Celebrate her life by watching OG Pokemon, especially Team Rocket, she will always be my partner in comedic crime." One thing is for sure: Lillis' work on "Pokémon" has absolute left a mark on an entire generation of young gamers.

So sad. She was one of the funniest, sweetest, kindest people. My dear friend for so many years. Celebrate her life by watching OG Pokemon, especially Team Rocket, she will always be my partner in comedic crime. RIP my friend. pic.twitter.com/jTWaI0d8pG

— Eric Stuart (@eric_stuart) August 12, 2024