According to IGN, Pokémon voice actor Rachael Lillis (Bakuma, Hunter X Hunter) has passed away after being diagnosed with cancer. Lillis played Misty, Jigglypuff, Jessie and other minor characters in Pokémon. In May of 2024, Lillis was officially diagnosed with breast cancer. A GoFundMe was created by her sister Laurie Orr to cover medical expenses. The campaign was the main source of the confirmation of Lillis’ passing, written by Orr on August 10, 2024.
“With a heavy heart, I regret to say that Rachael has passed away,” Orr stated on the GoFundMe campaign, “She passed away peacefully Saturday night without pain, and for that we are grateful. She is with God, the angels, and family that has passed before her, surrounded by infinite love.”
Veronica Taylor (Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles), the voice behind Ash Ketchum, made a statement about her co-star. “She will be forever remembered for the many animated roles she played” Taylor said on X.
Lillis was thankful to receive endless amount of support and love during her battle. The family wishes to grieve in private and plan a memorial at a later date.
The voice actor of Brock, Eric Stuart (Yu-Gi-Oh!), commented about Lillis’ passing on X as well. He stated, “She was one of the sweetest, kindest people. My dear friend for so many years.” He asked for a request from fans and the public to keep watching Pokémon in her honor and a celebration of her life.
The official Pokémon Company International spoke about Lillis and honored her memory. She brought characters to life and was loved by fans, fellow voice actors and the company itself. “She will be remembered for generations to come, and we will always keep her close in our hearts” They wrote on X.
The funds on the GoFundMe will be used for Lillis’ final medical bills and the memorial, which was confirmed by Orr. What is leftover will go to organizations fighting against cancer in honor of Lillis.