The voice actress of the Pokémon series Rachael Lillis dies at the age of 46

Pokemon voice actress Rachael Lillis, who starred in the Pokemon TV series, movies and video games dating back to the late 1990s, has died of breast cancer at the age of 46.

Lillis voiced the main Pokémon characters Misty and Jessie and many others in the popular Japanese anime series.

His death was announced by Veronica Taylor, who co-stars as Pokémon protagonist Ash Ketchum.

Ms Taylor wrote: “Rachael was an amazing talent, a bright light that shone through her voice whether she was speaking or singing.”

“We all know Rachael Lillis for the many wonderful roles she has played,” Ms Taylor wrote on social media on Monday.

“He filled our Saturday mornings and before/after school hours with his beautiful voice, his amazing comedic timing, and his amazing acting skills.”

He said Lillis was very grateful for the support he received as he battled cancer.

“It’s made a real difference,” said Ms Taylor.

His sister also confirmed Lillis’ death on a website that raised money for his cancer treatment.

“This was unexpected and we are completely devastated,” Laurie Orr wrote, adding that her sister’s health began to decline last week.

“My heart aches for the loss of my beloved little sister, although I am comforted to know that she is safe,” she said.

Lillis was born in Niagara Falls, New York, in 1978 and trained in opera at university before becoming a voice actress.

His voice appeared in 423 episodes of Pokémon between 1997 and 2015, according to IMDB.

He also voiced the Pokémon character Jigglypuff, including in the 2019 film Detective Pikachu and in the Super Smash Bros. video game series.

A memorial service is planned for a later date.