Legendary Pokémon Voice Actor James Carter Cathcart Dies at 71 — A Beloved Icon Remembered

This one hurts.

If you grew up watching Pokémon — waking up early on weekends or rushing home after school to catch the latest episode — chances are, you’ve heard James Carter Cathcart’s voice more than a few times. And whether you knew his name or not, you definitely knew him.

On July 8, Cathcart passed away at the age of 71 after a long fight with throat cancer. He spent his final days in hospice care in Forest Hills, New York, surrounded by loved ones. It’s the kind of news that makes you stop in your tracks.

More Than Just a Voice Actor

Cathcart didn’t just read lines. He brought life into every character he touched. Whether it was the wise and calm Professor Oak, the fiery and smug Gary, the dramatic flair of James from Team Rocket, or the unforgettable wisecracks of Meowth, he had a way of making you laugh, feel, and care. His voice was part of the magic that made Pokémon feel alive.

And his talents didn’t stop there. He also voiced Vector the Crocodile in Sonic X and the Shadow the Hedgehog game — always bringing something unique to every role.

It’s strange how voices can stay with us, even when we don’t realize it. For so many of us, Cathcart was our Saturday mornings, our trading card days, our earliest introductions to anime.

A Quiet Goodbye from James Carter Cathcart

In 2023, James Carter Cathcart was diagnosed with throat cancer — a cruel twist of fate for someone whose voice brought joy to millions. The illness targeted the very gift that made him legendary.

Despite the intense treatments and physical toll, James Carter Cathcart remained dedicated. He pushed through chemotherapy, determined to finish his final project: voicing beloved characters in Pokémon: Ultimate Journeys. After that, he quietly stepped away from the mic — no farewell spotlight, no long goodbye tour.

Just the work. Just the love for his characters. Just James being James, until the very end.

Tributes Pour In

Fellow voice actor Erica Schroeder called him “joyful,” “exuberant,” and “kind-hearted” — and if you’ve ever listened to him perform, you’d agree. He had a warmth in his voice that couldn’t be faked.

Online, fans are sharing favorite scenes, old episodes, and heartfelt stories. It’s clear that his impact wasn’t just professional — it was personal.

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A Final Thank You

James Carter Cathcart gave us more than we realized — not just characters, but memories. Laughter. Comfort. Nostalgia.

He may be gone, but his voice still echoes — in old episodes, in the games we grew up with, and in the hearts of every fan who ever heard Team Rocket’s motto or Professor Oak’s advice.

Thank you, James. For everything.

And just like that… you’re blasting off, one last time.