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Pokemon star and legendary voice actor dies after lengthy health battle

Voice actor James Carter Cathcart, who is best known for his roles in the popular animated series Pokemon, has passed away at the age of 71

Pokemon voice actor James Carter Cathcart has sadly died.

The 71-year-old passed after a courageous battle with throat cancer and died in hospice care in Forest Hills, New York, on 8 July. Fellow voice actor and Pokemon co-star Erica Schroeder confirmed the news on Instagram.

She wrote: "Rest in peace dear sweet man. I will miss you. The community will miss you. The world will miss you. One of the most joyful, exuberant, kind-hearted and talented souls no longer walks with us."

"James Carter Cathcart you were one of a kind, a gentle, beautiful, playful genius and I was happy to call you my friend. Master of the pen, piano and microphone. Friend to many. Loving father and husband. Thank you for your gifts."

[James died in hospice care after fighting cancer]

James died in hospice care after fighting cancer(Image: James Carter Cathcart/Facebook)

James was forced to retire from voice acting in 2023 due to his throat cancer diagnosis after an incredible 25 years working on the anime show, where he brought iconic characters James, Meowth, and Professor Oak to life.

He had been a part of the Pokemon franchise since the show's very first episode in 1997, going on to appear in over 700 episodes as well as reprising his roles in more than 15 Pokemon films. Fans were left heartbroken by the news, taking to Facebook to pay their respects to the talented voice actor, reports the Express.

[Professor Oak was one of the Pokemon characters voiced by James Carter Cathcart]

Professor Oak was one of the Pokemon characters voiced by James Carter Cathcart(Image: The Pokemon Company International)

One person wrote: "So sad to hear this. His voice was such a big part of so many childhoods - he truly brought Pokemon to life. Rest in peace, James Carter Cathcart."

Another sad fan said: "RIP his voice made a lasting impact on the joy of so many. James voice is legendary he always made me laugh the most."

Someone else chimed in: "No, so sad. He was amazing as Professor Oak. I loved him in Pokemon," while a second typed: "RIP James, thanks for be wonderful Pokemon childhood!"

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