Pokémon Voice Actor James Carter Cathcart Dies at 71

James Carter Cathcart Dies at 71 – Beloved Pokémon Voice Actor Remembered

The Pokémon community is mourning the loss of James Carter Cathcart, the legendary English voice behind characters like Professor Oak, Meowth, and Gary Oak. Cathcart passed away peacefully on July 8, 2025, at age 71, at Calvary Hospital in the Bronx, New York, after a battle with throat cancer. His wife, Martha Jacobi, confirmed the news via a Facebook post in a fan group.

🎭 Early Life & Career Beginnings

Born March 8, 1954, in Indiana, Cathcart began his career as a musician before transitioning into voice acting in the 1980s. Under the professional name “Jimmy Zoppi,” he gained recognition working with The Laughing Dogs and later joined the Pokémon English dubbing team in 1998 for “Pokémon: The First Movie”

✨ Iconic Pokémon Roles

• Professor Oak – The wise mentor of Ash Ketchum and his generation.
• Meowth – The voice of Team Rocket’s comic relief and loyal sidekick.
• Gary Oak – Ash’s rival and grandson of Professor Oak.

He also voiced other characters, including James from Team Rocket, and roles in non-Pokémon properties—such as Vector the Crocodile in Sonic X and Lumis in Yu‑Gi‑Oh! 

🎶 Music & Voice Acting Career

Besides anime, Cathcart was deeply involved in music. He led the Carter Cathcart Band since 1981 and co-wrote songs like “Remember Me” with Kiss guitarist Ace Frehley in 1989.

He also performed in commercials and TV specials, including KitKat and Coors Light ads, and acted in ABC Weekend Special.

🛡️ Battle with Throat Cancer & Final Days

Diagnosed with throat cancer in 2023, Cathcart retired after completing Pokémon: Ultimate Journeys. Sadly, he passed on July 8, 2025, in hospice care. His funeral is expected in early August in New York, with memorial donations planned to honor his legacy.

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❤️ Tributes from Friends, Fans & Pokémon Community

Tributes have poured in. Fellow voice artist Erica Schroeder expressed on Instagram:

“Rest in peace dear sweet man…One of the most joyful, exuberant, kind‑hearted and talented souls…Master of the pen, piano and microphone.”

Social media and Reddit fans shared heartfelt memories:

> “He brought so much joy! I remember a friend and I would recite the whole Team Rocket intro…” 

🔎 Why This Matters

James Carter Cathcart’s voice shaped the childhood of millions with characters spanning across Pokémon’s Kanto to Alola regions. His retirement and passing mark the end of an era for English-language anime and gaming fans worldwide.

🔗 External Links

For more perspectives on voice actors, check our related post about renowned anime voice actors.

Read more about this from People: Pokémon Voice Actor James Carter Cathcart Dies at 71.

🕊️ Final Tribute

James Carter Cathcart’s work will echo through every “Meowth!” and “Oak, how could you?” ever heard. His legacy remains with every Pokémon trainer both young and old, forever inspiring joy.