Pokemon voice actress Rachael Lillis dead at 46

Pokemon voice actress Rachael Lillis dead at 46

Pokemon voice actress Rachael Lillis - who played characters Misty and Jessie in the beloved show - has died at the age of 46.

Her co-star Veronica Taylor, who voiced the iconic character Ash Ketchum, confirmed she died after a battle with cancer on Saturday.

'Rachael was an extraordinary talent, a bright light that shone through her voice whether speaking or singing,' Taylor said.

'She will be forever remembered for the many animated roles she played, with her iconic performances as Pokemon's Misty and Jessie being the most beloved.

'I am not sure how this very dark void will be filled now that her light no longer shines in it.'

Misty's character sported a short orange ponytail and traveled with Ash while specializing in water-type Pokemon in the show that launched in 1996.

Jessie is a member of rival Team Rocket who followed Ash and friends around often trying to steal his Pikachu.

Her sister, Laurie Orr, said in a GoFundMe update that Lillis' health started to decline in the past week.