Legendary Canadian actor and voice actor Peter Cullen, best recognised worldwide for providing the voice of Optimus Prime, passed away at age 85.
Cullen died quietly on Wednesday at his Los Angeles home, surrounded by loved ones, according to a statement issued by his family.
The cause of death was not revealed by the family. When Cullen voiced Optimus Prime, the honourable leader of the Autobots, in the first animated Transformers television series in 1984, he became a household celebrity.
The character became one of the most adored heroes in animation history thanks to his powerful voice and unforgettable delivery.
Later, he reprised the role in a number of successful live-action Transformers films, starting with Michael Bay’s 2007 adaptation, which brought the character to a fresh audience.
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Cullen had an incredible career spanning several decades outside of Transformers. In addition to providing the voice of many other well-known characters, such as K.A.R.R. from Knight Rider, he also provided the voice of Eeyore, the kind but melancholy donkey in several Winnie the Pooh productions.
In the 1987 science-fiction classic Predator, he also contributed the unique voice effects for the terrifying predator. His portrayal of Optimus Prime had a profound impact on popular culture.
When the character was killed off in The Transformers: The Movie in 1986, fans reacted with widespread grief and outrage, prompting calls for the beloved Autobot leader’s return.
Reflecting on his connection to the character in previous interviews, Cullen described returning to the role years later as “slipping into an old pair of very comfortable shoes,” expressing gratitude for being part of a franchise that grew into a global phenomenon.
His family honoured him by describing him as a kind and moral man whose creations inspired countless admirers worldwide.
Angus, Claire, Pilar, and Clay are Peter Cullen’s four surviving children.
For millions of Transformers fans who grew up hearing the iconic voice behind the well-known phrase, “Autobots, roll out,” his passing signifies the end of an era.
