James Carter Cathcart, the voice actor known for his work in Pokémon, has passed away at the age of 71.
🕊️ The Pokémon community is mourning the loss of James Carter Cathcart, a beloved voice actor who brought iconic characters like Meowth, James, Professor Oak, and Gary Oak to life. He passed away peacefully on July 8, 2025, at Calvary Hospital in the Bronx, following a battle with throat cancer. His wife, Martha Jacobi, announced the sad news on Facebook July 10.
"For those of you who don't know me, I am James Carter Cathcart’s wife," In a fan Facebook group, she wrote. "JCC died, peacefully, very early in the morning, on Tuesday 7/8/25, at Calvary Hospital, in the Bronx."
She went on, "The funeral will be in early August, In New York. Memorial designations are still in process, pending conversations with one of the charities that was close to Jimmy's heart. I will post those here when they are in place."
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According to several sources, James retired in 2023 after being diagnosed with throat cancer. Known by many as Jimmy Zoppi, the actor also starred in a number of other animated series, such as Yu-Gi-Oh! Duel Masters, Sonic X, Little Bird's Big Adventure, Aria: The Animation, Impy's Island, The Three Musketeers, and Mashed.
As the voice of Meowth, James, Professor Oak, and other Pokémon characters, Martha also expressed her appreciation to his fan following for his efforts.
His wife, Martha Jacobi, shared heartfelt words with fans: “Giving you joy was why he worked so hard on his craft. Please know how much he appreciated you!”
Fellow voice actor Erica Schroeder paid tribute, calling him: “One of the most joyful, exuberant, kind-hearted and talented souls... a gentle, beautiful, playful genius.”
"Rest in peace dear sweet man," she expressed. "I will miss you. The community will miss you. The world will miss you. One of the most joyful, exuberant, kind-hearted and talented souls no longer walks with us. James Carter Cathcart you were one of a kind, a gentle, beautiful, playful genius and I was happy to call you, my friend."
She continued by showcasing his abilities outside of voice acting, writing that he was "master of the pen, piano and microphone. Friend to many. Loving father and husband,” adding, “Thank you for your gifts."
He truly was a voice of childhood for millions.
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