Summary
James Carter Cathcart is an American voice actor, script adapter, pianist, and singer best known for his long-running role as the voice of James, Meowth, and Professor Oak in the Pokémon anime series. Born on March 8, 1954, Cathcart’s career spans several decades across animation, dubbing, music, and scriptwriting. He began in the entertainment industry as a musician before transitioning into voice work during the anime boom of the 1990s. His versatile voice and comedic timing made him a favorite among fans, especially within the Pokémon community. Cathcart also worked on English dubs for Yu-Gi-Oh!, One Piece, Sonic X, and many more.
What do Pikachu, Meowth, and James from Pokémon have in common? One incredibly talented man—James Carter Cathcart. A voice that shaped our childhoods and brought animated characters to life, James is a household name in the world of anime dubbing and beyond.
Let’s dive into the life and legacy of this voice acting legend, exploring his background, achievements, and the remarkable path he carved in entertainment.
Who is James Carter Cathcart?
James Carter Cathcart is a renowned American voice actor, pianist, and scriptwriter. He gained fame primarily through his long-standing association with the English-dubbed Pokémon series, voicing multiple key characters and script-adapting episodes.
How Old is James Carter Cathcart?
Born on March 8, 1954, James is 71 years old in 2025. He has been active in the entertainment world since the 1980s and remains beloved by generations of fans.
James Carter Cathcart’s Height
James stands approximately 5 feet 10 inches (178 cm) tall. While he may be known for his voice, his presence and energy in live performances and conventions have always been vibrant.
Early Life and Education
James grew up with a passion for both music and acting. He pursued music and liberal arts in college and eventually found his niche combining the two, especially in voice acting where rhythm and timing are key.
How He Entered Voice Acting
Before entering the voice booth, James played piano in bands and wrote songs. His break into voice acting came in the late 1980s, working on English dubs for Japanese anime. His flexibility, range, and timing made him a standout.
Iconic Roles in Pokémon
James became synonymous with Pokémon, voicing characters such as:
- James (Team Rocket)
- Meowth (after Maddie Blaustein)
- Professor Oak
From slapstick comedy to heartfelt moments, James gave voice to personalities that defined the franchise.
Other Notable TV and Anime Roles
Beyond Pokémon, James lent his voice to roles in:
- Yu-Gi-Oh!
- One Piece
- Slayers
- Boogiepop Phantom
He was also a frequent ADR script adapter, shaping the way dialogue was localized for Western audiences.
Music Career and Band Involvement
James is an accomplished pianist and songwriter. He was part of the band “The Laughing Dogs”, which performed in New York City during the late ’70s and early ’80s. Music remained his first love alongside acting.
Family and Personal Life
James has always kept a low profile about his personal life. He is married to Martha Jacobi, and they have shared a close bond for decades. His family has been a strong support system, especially during his health challenges.
Health Journey and Retirement
In 2023, James announced his retirement due to cancer-related health issues. His fans worldwide poured out love and gratitude for his contributions to their childhood and fandoms. Despite stepping away, his legacy continues through the characters he brought to life.
Awards and Recognition
While he didn’t always get mainstream awards, James is widely celebrated within anime and fan communities. He has received accolades at conventions and fan expos for his service to the anime industry.
Net Worth and Income Sources
James Carter Cathcart’s net worth is estimated to be around $2 million. His income came from:
- Voice acting roles
- Script adaptation
- Music and live performances
- Licensing and royalties
Legacy in Voice Acting
James is often called a cornerstone of Western anime dubbing. His ability to shift from villainous to comedic roles made him a master of his craft. Many voice actors cite him as a mentor or inspiration.
Recent News and Public Appearances
Despite his health, James has made a few virtual appearances and received tributes at conventions. Fans continue to honor him through art, social media campaigns, and retrospectives.
What’s Next for His Legacy?
Even in retirement, James’ work is set to live on. He has hinted at archiving his work, possibly releasing memoirs or fan-interactive digital content. His influence in dubbing and adaptation will undoubtedly inspire future generations.
Conclusion
James Carter Cathcart is more than a voice actor; he’s a storyteller, a musician, and a piece of pop culture history. From Pokémon to music venues in NYC, he’s touched hearts around the world. As his legacy grows, one thing remains certain—James will always be heard, even in silence.
Also Read : Ray Stevens – Age, Height, Family, Career, TV Shows, Awards, Net Worth
FAQs
1. Why did James Carter Cathcart retire from voice acting?
He retired in 2023 due to health issues related to cancer.
2. What characters did James Carter Cathcart voice in Pokémon?
He voiced James (Team Rocket), Meowth (later years), and Professor Oak.
3. Did James Carter Cathcart have a music career?
Yes, he was a pianist and part of the band “The Laughing Dogs.”
4. Is James Carter Cathcart married?
Yes, he is married to Martha Jacobi.
5. What is James Carter Cathcart’s estimated net worth?
As of 2025, it is estimated to be around $2 million.
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