Pokémon Voice Actor James Carter Cathcart Passes Away at 71: Honoring a Nintendo Legacy
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Published on: July 19, 2025
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James Carter Cathcart, the iconic voice behind various beloved characters in the Pokémon animated series, has died at the age of 71.
Cathcart’s passing, announced on Thursday, July 10, 2025, follows his extended battle with throat cancer, which he was diagnosed with in 2023.
News of his death was first reported by TMZ and has since been widely acknowledged by the entertainment and gaming community.
Cathcart's association with the Pokémon franchise spanned decades, making him a legendary figure among both anime and Nintendo fans.
He was best known for voicing the irrepressible Meowth and the wise Professor Oak, with his distinct performances becoming integral to the English-language identity of the Pokémon television series.
Beyond his headline roles, Cathcart contributed a vast array of character voices across the Pokémon anime, lending range and heart to many episodes for over two decades.
In addition to his extensive anime work, Cathcart’s talents moved beyond TV to video games.
Notably, his voice brought Pokémon characters to life in "Super Smash Bros Brawl" for the Nintendo Wii, a fan-favorite crossover title that introduced Nintendo’s iconic gaming characters to a new generation.
This appearance underscores Cathcart’s enduring legacy not just in television, but across major Nintendo hardware and software countless players have enjoyed.
Cathcart was also a prolific writer for the Pokémon franchise.
For approximately seventeen years, he was responsible for scripting English dubs of the Pokémon anime, a role that helped bridge cultural gaps and contributed significantly to the series' global appeal.
His influence in the franchise’s writing room was matched by his presence in the recording studio, demonstrating a rare versatility seen by few in game and anime production.
Outside the Pokémon universe, Cathcart had a thriving career as a musician.
A skilled pianist, he performed alongside acclaimed artists like Blondie and The Monkees, further testament to his creative range.
Cathcart’s talents, both as a performer and collaborator, left an indelible mark on those who worked with him, whether in music, television, or gaming.
Colleagues and fans alike have paid tribute across social media platforms.
Erica Schroeder, fellow voice actor known for characters like Nurse Joy, expressed her admiration and grief via an Instagram post, underscoring the lasting camaraderie within the Pokémon voice acting community.
James Carter Cathcart’s contributions to Pokémon, Nintendo, and the broader entertainment world are enduring.
His work—across television, video games like "Super Smash Bros Brawl" on the Nintendo Wii, and as the writer behind the Pokémon dub scripts—will continue to entertain, inspire, and unite fans for years to come.
