Rachael Lillis, Legendary Pokémon Voice Actor and Jigglypuff Icon, Passes Away at 55

Rachael Lillis, the distinguished voice actor celebrated for her pivotal roles in the Pokémon anime series and Nintendo's Super Smash Bros.

franchise, passed away on August 10, 2024, at the age of 55.

Her extensive contributions to the world of video games and anime have left a profound impact on generations of fans across the globe.

Lillis was revered for lending her voice to several beloved Pokémon characters, most notably Misty and Jessie, who became iconic faces of the series.

Her range as a performer extended further, as she also brought to life a number of Pokémon creatures, including the unforgettable Jigglypuff.

In the realm of video games, her performance as Jigglypuff has become a hallmark of the Super Smash Bros.

franchise, featured on platforms such as Nintendo 64, GameCube, Wii, Nintendo 3DS, Wii U, and Nintendo Switch via Super Smash Bros.

Ultimate. News of Lillis’s passing was shared by fellow voice actor Veronica Taylor, known for her role as Ash Ketchum in the English-language Pokémon anime.

Taylor paid tribute on social media, describing Lillis as "an extraordinary talent who brought light and energy to every role she portrayed." She further expressed that Lillis was deeply appreciative of the outpouring of support during her battle with breast cancer, a diagnosis she received earlier in the year. Lillis’s remarkable career spanned both television and film.

In addition to her long-running tenure in the Pokémon anime, she provided voice work for movies such as Pokémon: The First Movie, Pokémon: The Movie 2000, and Pokémon 3: Spell of the Unown.

Her portrayal of beloved characters not only defined the early years of Pokémon's international success but also contributed to the enduring popularity of the franchise across multiple Nintendo platforms and media types. The Pokémon Company and Nintendo communities have together mourned the loss of Lillis, recognizing her indelible mark on the industry.

A memorial honoring her legacy is planned for a later date.

As fans revisit classic episodes and titles like Super Smash Bros.

Ultimate on Nintendo Switch, Lillis's voicework stands as a testament to her artistry, passion, and the joy she brought to millions. Rachael Lillis’s life and career are a reminder of the profound influence that voice actors have on the legacy of games and anime.

The Nintendo and Pokémon fandoms join together in celebrating her achievements, ensuring her memory endures both in the industry and the hearts of fans worldwide.

Pokémon Super Smash Bros Nintendo Smash Bros Jigglypuff Rachael Lillis Pokémon anime anime Super Smash Bros. Veronica Taylor Misty Jessie Pokémon: The First Movie Pokémon: The Movie 2000 Pokémon 3: Spell of the Unown