Pokémon Fans Honor Iconic Voice Actress with Central Park Bench

In October 2025, the Pokémon community celebrated the legacy of the late voice actress Rachael Lillis, who passed away the previous year at the age of 55 after a battle with breast cancer. Lillis was known for voicing iconic characters like Misty and Jessie of Team Rocket in the beloved Pokémon animated series.

To honor Lillis' contributions, fellow Pokémon voice actors Veronica Taylor, Lisa Ortiz, and Tara Sands announced the installation of a bench in her memory in New York City's Central Park. The bench, located on the path between 106th and 108th Streets, was largely funded by fans of the show who donated generously to the project.

"Great news! I am so happy to reveal the bench in honor of Rachael Lillis in Central Park's Upper West Side," said Taylor, the voice of Ash Ketchum. "Thank you all for your generosity and kindness in helping make this a reality. It has been a labor of love for me, Tara and Lisa and a joy working with the Central Park Conservancy."

The bench's plaque reads, "In honor of Racheel Lillis, whose iconic voice filled Saturday mornings inspiring generations to come." Fans are now able to visit the tribute and reflect on Lillis' lasting impact on the Pokémon franchise and its devoted fanbase.