Pokemon Voice Actor Billy Kametz Has Died Aged 35

Pokémon voice actor Billy Kametz died, aged 35, from colon cancer.

The popular actor was best known for voicing Naofumi Iwatani in The Rising of the Shield Hero and Ren in Pokémon Journeys: The Series. He died on Thursday (9 June).

News of his death was announced on Twitter by his agency Point of Contact Booking.

The agency said: "With tremendous and heartbroken regret, we must inform you of the passing of @BillyKametz."

They proceeded to link to Kametz's obituary, which fondly looked back over the actor's personal and professional life.

It detailed how Kametz voiced a number of video game and anime roles but got his big break on the Disney cruise line as an entertainment staff member.

From there he was offered the part of Aladdin in Disneyland's Musical Spectacular and Kametz's hard work meant that his career continued to grow.

His obituary highlighted that: "His love for his work as an actor and unforgettable voice will continue to entertain fans and always be remembered.

"Billy was always most gracious towards all of his fans and appreciated the opportunity to do something he loved so much each day."

Kametz was also remembered fondly by those he loved: "Anyone who has met Billy will tell you he is one of the most sincere, humble and loving people they have ever met.

"His infectious personality and smile always lit up a room with so much joy and happiness. Billy always left a positive impression on anyone he came in contact with.

"His love for his family, friends and girlfriend was always most important to him and that love will carry on forever."

Kametz is survived by his sister (Nikki Kametz Lees), brother-in-law (Greg), nephews (Cash and Jaxon), uncle (Peter Sartori), uncle (Tom Kametz), aunt (Barbara Trimble), and girlfriend (Erica Lindbeck).

He is said to have been 'blown away by the very large outpouring of support and love he received during his battle with colon cancer'.

Following the news of his death, those fans took to Twitter to thank the actor for his enduring legacy.

One wrote: "Rest in Peace, Billy Kametz. Thank you so much for everything you've done for the anime community.

"We share our condolences with his friends and family."

Kametz's family asked that any donations following his death be made to the Colon Cancer Coalition.

If you have experienced a bereavement and would like to speak with someone in confidence contact Cruse Bereavement Care via their national helpline on 0808 808 1677