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.”

A prolific voice actor behind Pokémon's Professor Oak and many other classic animated characters has passed away. James Carter Cathcart, who was best known for his voice acting work in animation and video games,

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.