'Transformers' Optimus Prime Voice Was 85
The Hollywood Reporter • • entertainment
Key Points:
- Peter Cullen, renowned Canadian voice actor best known for voicing Optimus Prime in Transformers and Eeyore in Winnie the Pooh, has died at age 85 in Los Angeles.
- Cullen's iconic portrayal of Optimus Prime began with the 1984-87 Transformers animated series and continued through multiple films, including the 2007 blockbuster directed by Michael Bay and its sequels.
- Beyond Transformers, Cullen voiced characters such as King Kong (1976), K.A.R.R. in Knight Rider, and contributed the Predator monster sounds in the 1987 film.
- He drew inspiration for Optimus Prime’s voice from his older brother, a Vietnam veteran, and earned a Daytime Emmy nomination for Transformers: Prime (2010-13).
- Cullen is survived by his four children, and his family encourages fans to honor his legacy by leading with compassion and integrity.
