James Carter Cathcart Passes Away at 69: Pokémon Voice Actor’s Legacy Lives On

July 10, 2025 – The animation world mourns the loss of James Carter Cathcart, a beloved voice actor who brought iconic characters to life in the Pokémon series and beyond. Cathcart passed away on Tuesday, July 8, 2025, at the age of 69 in hospice care in Forest Hills, New York, after a courageous battle with throat cancer diagnosed in 2023. His passing has left fans, colleagues, and the entertainment industry reflecting on his remarkable contributions to anime and gaming.

A Voice That Defined Generations

James Carter Cathcart, also known by stage names like Jimmy Zoppi and Billy Beach, was a cornerstone of the Pokémon franchise. Since 1998, he lent his versatile voice to beloved characters such as Professor Oak, Gary Oak, James, and Meowth from Team Rocket, captivating audiences with his dynamic performances. His work extended beyond Pokémon, notably voicing Vector the Crocodile in Sonic X and the Shadow the Hedgehog video game, as well as roles in Yu-Gi-Oh!, Kirby: Right Back at Ya!, and One Piece, among others.

Cathcart’s ability to bring depth and personality to characters made him a fan favorite. As one X post noted, “You truly knew how to give Gary Oak the smug snark he needed,” highlighting his knack for capturing the essence of each role. His performances resonated with millions, shaping childhood memories and leaving an indelible mark on the anime community.

A Battle with Throat Cancer

Cathcart’s health struggles became public in January 2023 when his wife, Martha Jacobi, shared on CaringBridge that he had been diagnosed with an advanced form of throat cancer, which began at the base of his tongue and spread to his neck. Despite undergoing chemotherapy, the treatments were not as effective as hoped, leading to more aggressive interventions. Cathcart retired from voice acting in 2023 after completing his work on the English dub of Pokémon: Ultimate Journeys, a decision announced by his wife as he focused on his health.

The news of his passing was first shared by fellow voice actress Erica Schroeder on Instagram, with confirmation from family members reported by TMZ. The outpouring of tributes on platforms like X reflects the profound impact Cathcart had, with fans and peers expressing gratitude for his talent and contributions.

A Legacy in Anime and Beyond

Beyond his voice acting, Cathcart was a skilled script adaptor, contributing to the localization of Pokémon and other anime series. His work helped bridge cultural gaps, making these stories accessible to English-speaking audiences. His roles in Revolutionary Girl Utena, The Slayers, and Tokyo Mew Mew showcased his versatility, while his contributions to video games like Pokémon Snap and Super Smash Bros. Brawl (as Munchlax) further cemented his influence in the entertainment industry.

Tributes on X, such as those from @TailsChannel and @JustJared, highlight his work in the Sonic universe and Pokémon, with fans noting his “range” and ability to bring characters to life. His legacy is not only in the characters he voiced but in the joy and inspiration he brought to generations of fans.

Remembering James Carter Cathcart

The loss of James Carter Cathcart comes less than a year after the passing of another Pokémon voice actress, Rachael Lillis, who died of breast cancer in August 2024. The Pokémon community continues to grieve these losses while celebrating the enduring contributions of its stars. Cathcart’s voice will live on through the countless episodes, games, and memories he helped create.

Our thoughts are with Cathcart’s family, friends, and fans during this difficult time. His work will continue to inspire and entertain, ensuring his legacy endures in the hearts of those who grew up with Pokémon and beyond.

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