He was known for playing Professor Oak and Meowth in the long-running franchise. He also made appearances in other popular animated series such as “Yu-Gi-Oh!” and “One Piece.”

James Carter Cathcart, a voice actor who starred as several popular character in the “ Pokemon ” franchise, died Tuesday after complications from oral cancer. He was 71. Cathcart voiced Professor Oak, his grandson Gary Oak, Team Rocket member James and his Pokemon sidekick Meowth for 25 years in the long-running anime.

A ctor James Carter Cathcart, the voice of numerous beloved Pokémon anime series characters such as James, Meowth, Professor Oak, Gary Oak, and more, has died at the age of 71. First reported by TMZ, Cathcart died on Tuesday following a battle with throat cancer, which he was diagnosed with in 2023. Cathcart retired from acting that same year.