Pokémon Professor Oak actor James Carter Cathcart dies, age 71

Pokémon star James Carter Cathcart has sadly passed away at the age of 71.

Born 8 March 1954, in New Jersey, USA, James Carter Cathcart won the hearts of millions of children across the world, and that love carried many through to adulthood with his performances in the Pokémon animated series.

James Carter Cathcart is best known for his roles as James from Team Rocket and their sidekick, Meowth, as well as Professor Oak. In 2023, the actor retired from acting following a throat cancer diagnosis.

James Carter Cathcart had been working his magic with the Pokémon animated series for 25 years, but sadly, that came to an end on 8 July 2025 following a lengthy cancer battle.

Erica Schroeder, his Pokémon co-star, who played roles such as Nurse Joy, Diana’s mom and Lapras, paid tribute in a heartwarming Instagram post.

“Rest in peace, dear sweet man. I will miss you. The community will miss you,” she wrote. “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.

“Master of the pen, piano and microphone. Friend to many. Loving father and husband. Thank you for your gifts.”

To no surprise whatsoever, fans also paid their tributes to the beloved actor.

“Loved his work in the original Pokémon… we lost a great one,” said jakejameslugo, replying to a tweet from IGN.

“We’ve lost a true king,” declared Nicky_Nicotine.

“What a man. Rest in peace, James,” replied supercollider_x.

“While we mourn the loss of a talented voice actor, it's important to celebrate the lasting impact he had on generations of fans,” exclaimed J_wiil7.

We at GAMINGbible send our love and support to the family, friends and fans of James Carter Cathcart during this sad time. He will, no doubt, be missed by millions all over the world.