Legendary Pokémon Voice Actor James Carter Cathcart Dies at 71

James Carter Cathcart, the beloved American voice actor known for his work on the Pokémon series, passed away at age 71 after a battle with throat cancer. Cathcart voiced iconic characters including Team Rocket’s James, Meowth, Professor Oak, and Gary Oak, becoming a constant presence across more than 700 episodes and numerous Pokémon films from 1997 until his retirement in 2023. His portrayal of James, a character celebrated as a queer icon within the Pokémon community, was especially cherished for its flamboyant and campy charm. Tributes from fellow voice actors and fans highlighted Cathcart’s kind-hearted nature and his lasting impact on multiple generations of viewers. Beyond Pokémon, his career spanned over 100 voice roles in other series and video games such as Yu-Gi-Oh!, One Piece, and Sonic X. His passing has deeply saddened the Pokémon community, who remember him not only for his vocal talents but also for his warmth and generosity.