James Carter Cathcart, the voice behind many Pokémon and anime characters, has died

Renowned voice actor James Carter Cathcart, known for bringing to life beloved Pokémon anime characters such as James, Meowth, Professor Oak and Gary Oak, passed away last Tuesday at the age of 71.

First reported by TMZ and later confirmed by voice actress Erica Schroeder. His wife, Martha Jacobi, had reported in January 2023 about the advanced stage of throat cancer he was facing. Following the diagnosis, Cathcart decided to end his participation in the anime at the end of season 25, known in the United States as Pokémon Ultimate Journeys.

A legacy beyond the Pokémon world

Cathcart’s impact on the Pokémon universe is undeniable. His career with the franchise began with Pokémon: The First Movie - Mewtwo Strikes Back, as well as in the short film Pikachu’s Vacation. As time went by, his participations multiplied, including Todd Snap in Pokémon Snap and, more regularly, from the 2000s onwards, characters that would become iconic under his interpretation: James, Meowth, Professor Oak and Gary Oak, all originally played by other actors.

Beyond Pokémon, Cathcart made a notable mark in other anime productions. He was the English voice of Weevil Underwood in Yu-Gi-Oh! Duel Monsters and also participated in series such as Revolutionary Girl Utena (as Miki Kaoru), Tokyo Mew Mew (Cyniclons Tarb), The Slayers (Dilgear), Alien Nine (Kumi’s Borg) and Kirby: Right Back at Ya! (Sir Gallant).

Also known by the pseudonyms Jimmy Zoppi, Billy Beach and Carter Cathcart, his talent was not limited to dubbing. He was also a musician, vocalist and did commercial work for important brands throughout his career.

May he rest in peace.

Follow MeriStation USA on X (formerly known as Twitter). Your video game and entertainment website for all the news, updates, and breaking news from the world of video games, movies, series, manga, and anime. Previews, reviews, interviews, trailers, gameplay, podcasts and more! Follow us now!