New York City — James Carter Cathcart, a celebrated voice actor known for his memorable roles in beloved franchises like Pokémon and Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles, passed away on July 8 after battling throat cancer. He was 71. Cathcart’s death was shared via a heartfelt Facebook announcement from his wife, Martha Jacobi, who expressed gratitude to his fans for their support throughout his career.
Cathcart was a prominent figure in the voice acting community, amassing an impressive portfolio that included over 700 episodes and 15 films related to Pokémon. He first ventured into this iconic series with “Pokémon: The First Movie” in 1998, lending his voice to characters such as Professor Oak, Gary Oak, and Team Rocket’s James, alongside his Pokémon companion, Meowth.
In addition to his contributions to Pokémon, Cathcart, occasionally credited as Jimmy Zoppi, showcased his vocal talents in various other animated series. His work extended to “Sonic X,” “Yu-Gi-Oh! Duel Masters,” “Aria: The Animation,” and several others, making him a versatile presence in the world of animation. Cathcart continued to work in the industry until his retirement in 2023, sparked by his illness.
Before establishing his voice acting career, Cathcart was involved in the music scene as a guitarist and singer for The Laughing Dogs, a punk band active in the New York City circuit during the 1970s. The band, known for its performances alongside acts such as the Patti Smith Group and Blondie, featured their song “Get Outta My Way” on the soundtrack of the movie “CBGB,” directed by Randall Miller.
His colleagues in the entertainment industry mourned his death, with tributes pouring in from fellow voice actors and fans alike. Erica Schroeder, who shared the screen with Cathcart in the Pokémon series, reflected on his unique spirit and talent in a moving Instagram post, describing him as a “gentle, beautiful, playful genius” who brought joy to many.
Plans for a funeral service are underway, with Cathcart’s wife indicating it will take place in early August in New York. As the voice acting community and fans around the globe remember his legacy, Cathcart’s impact on popular culture and the joy he brought to countless audiences will not be forgotten.