The Voice Behind Pokémon’s Most Iconic Characters, James Carter Cathcart, Passes Away”

The world of anime and voice acting has lost a treasured talent. James Carter Cathcart, the beloved voice actor best known for his unforgettable work on the Pokémon franchise, passed away at the age of 71. His death marks the end of an era for millions of fans who grew up hearing his voice on Saturday mornings, streaming platforms, and Pokémon battles across generations.

Cathcart had been battling throat cancer, a diagnosis he revealed in early 2023, leading to his retirement from voice acting after over 25 years in the industry. While his passing is a profound loss, his legacy lives on in the characters he made iconic.

A Voice That Shaped a Global Phenomenon

James Carter Cathcart began voicing characters for Pokémon in 1998, quickly becoming an essential part of the anime’s Western identity. His standout performances as James of Team Rocket and the ever-wise Professor Oak gave the show both heart and hilarity.

Perhaps most impressively, Cathcart also voiced Meowth, adding a unique blend of comic timing and emotional depth to the mischievous Pokémon. His ability to shift seamlessly between these distinct roles made him a fan favorite.

Fans will forever remember the phrase:

"Prepare for trouble, and make it double!"

—delivered countless times by Cathcart’s James, solidifying Team Rocket's role in pop culture.

Beyond Pokémon: A Career of Range and Impact

Although Pokémon was his most recognized work, Cathcart had a diverse and impressive portfolio. He lent his voice to various English dubs of anime such as:

Yu-Gi-Oh!, voicing characters like Weevil Underwood

One Piece, playing multiple supporting characters

Commercials, radio spots, and even narration for documentaries

Cathcart wasn’t just a voice actor—he was also a musician, scriptwriter, and dubbing director. His contributions went far beyond the microphone, helping shape how anime was adapted and received in the English-speaking world.

Outpouring of Tributes From the Community

Since the announcement of his passing, social media platforms have been flooded with tributes from fans, fellow voice actors, and production companies. Hashtags like #ThankYouJames and #RIPCathcart trended worldwide.

Longtime co-stars and fans alike described him as "a brilliant performer, a kind soul, and a joy to work with." The Pokémon Company issued a heartfelt statement praising his “unmatched contributions” to the franchise.

Many fans shared personal stories of how Cathcart’s characters helped them through tough times, provided laughter, and created unforgettable childhood memories.

A Final Battle Fought With Grace

In 2023, James Carter Cathcart revealed he had been diagnosed with throat and tongue cancer. Despite undergoing several rounds of chemotherapy and radiation, his condition eventually led him to retire from voice acting.

His wife, Martha Jacobi, frequently updated fans through a family blog, sharing both hopeful moments and difficult milestones. Her final note celebrated James's courage, his love for fans, and the immense pride he felt in his body of work.

Carrying His Voice Forward

Cathcart’s passing leaves a void in the voice acting world, but his work will continue to inspire and entertain future generations. As streaming platforms keep the Pokémon anime accessible, new audiences will continue to hear his iconic delivery and feel the magic he brought to every episode.

For fans who grew up with Pokémon, hearing Meowth's pun-filled rants or James’s melodramatic schemes wasn’t just entertainment—it was part of growing up. His voice was comfort, comedy, and connection rolled into one.

Final Words

James Carter Cathcart may be gone, but his impact is indelible. Whether through a thunderbolt attack shouted with urgency or a clever quip from Meowth, his voice lives on—eternally etched into the hearts of millions.

Let us raise our Poké Balls one last time for the man behind the voice, and say:

“Team Rocket may blast off again… but your legacy will never fade.”