'Pokémon' star Veronica Taylor says Rachael Lillis' death has left a "very dark void"

She wrote on X, formerly Twitter: "I was lucky enough to know Rachael as a friend. She had unlimited kindness and compassion, even until the very end.

"She had a great sense of humor, was wonderful to be with, incredibly intelligent, and had such a memory. She worked hard and cared deeply.

"I am not sure how this very dark void will be filled now that her light no longer shines in it.

"Like the shooting stars in the Perseids, Rachael was a magnificent wonder and truly special. She burned bright and vanished too soon. She will live on in our memories for eternity."

Veronica confirmed Lillis' passing "with a heavy heart", and paid tribute to her "extraordinary talent".

She wrote: "Rachael was an extraordinary talent, a bright light that shone through her voice whether speaking or singing.

"She will be forever remembered for the many animated roles she played, with her iconic performances as Pokémon's Misty and Jessie being the most beloved.

"Rachael was so thankful for all the generous love and support that was given to her as she battled cancer. It truly made a positive difference.

"Her family also wishes to thank you as they take this time to grieve privately. A memorial is being planned for a future date."

The actress' first voice credit was in Kenji Miyazawa's 1985 project 'Night on the Galactic Railroad', while she joined 'Pokémon' in the late 1990s.

As well as the hit TV series - which ran from 1997 until 2015 - she also lent her voice to the likes of 'Pokémon: The First Movie'.

Her other credits included 'Tamagotchi the Movie' and 'Yu-Gi-Oh!'