Pokémon Voice Actor James Carter Cathcart Passes Away at 71: Celebrating a Legacy of Iconic Performances

The global Pokémon community is mourning the loss of James Carter Cathcart, legendary voice actor and a defining influence on the Pokémon franchise, who has died at the age of 71.

Cathcart's dynamic performances shaped the personalities of some of the most memorable characters in the Pokémon anime, including Gary Oak, Professor Oak, and Team Rocket's James and Meowth.

His talent extended beyond Pokémon, also gracing series such as Yu-Gi-Oh! and Sonic the Hedgehog, firmly establishing him as a cherished figure in the world of animation and video games. With a career spanning decades, Cathcart made his mark following the Pokémon anime's debut in 1997 on TV Tokyo in Japan and later on international platforms.

His energetic portrayal of Meowth and distinct characterizations within the English-language adaptation played a pivotal role in The Pokémon Company’s global success, reaching millions of viewers across platforms including the Nintendo Switch and eShop, as well as streaming services. Voice actress Erica Schroeder, a close friend and longtime collaborator, honored Cathcart's memory in a heartfelt statement on social media.

She described him as "one of the most joyful, talented, and kind individuals" within the industry, emphasizing his mastery of performance, music, and writing.

"James was a unique presence—a playful genius with an unmistakable warmth, whose artistry touched fans and colleagues alike," Schroeder shared, underlining the sense of loss felt throughout the voice acting and gaming communities. Cathcart announced his retirement from voice acting in 2023 following a throat cancer diagnosis.

Despite this, his dedication endured, and he contributed his unmistakable voice to the grand finale of the original Pokémon series, which aired the same year.

His collaborative spirit and creative vision fostered an enduring legacy that continues to inspire fans and fellow artists worldwide. Over the years, Cathcart’s work with Nintendo and production partners helped the Pokémon anime reach new milestones, amplifying the reach of related games and merchandise distributed by The Pokémon Company.

His contributions have been widely acknowledged across social media, with an outpouring of gratitude from fans, colleagues, and industry leaders who recognize the indelible impact he had on generations of Pokémon enthusiasts. James Carter Cathcart’s influence extends far beyond the microphone.

As fans celebrate the Pokémon anime’s extensive history—across television, movies, and gaming platforms like the Nintendo Switch—his performances remain a touchstone of humor, depth, and heart.

On behalf of the gaming and entertainment communities, we extend our deepest condolences to Cathcart’s family, friends, and all who were touched by his extraordinary talent and generosity.

Pokémon anime James Carter Cathcart Meowth Gary Oak The Pokémon Company Nintendo Erica Schroeder Yu-Gi-Oh! Sonic the Hedgehog