Peter Cullen, the legendary voice of Optimus Prime, has died at 85. The Canadian actor died Wednesday at his home in Los Angeles. His agent, Kevin Motley, confirmed the news to The Hollywood Reporter. His family said he died peacefully, surrounded by loved ones.
Cullen became a global favourite through his deep and powerful voice. He first voiced Optimus Prime in the original Transformers animated series in the 1980s. He later returned for several films, TV shows and video games. His family urged fans to honour his legacy through kindness and service. They also shared his memorable words:
“Be strong enough to be gentle.”
From Optimus Prime to Eeyore
Cullen built a career that lasted more than 60 years. He earned over 200 credits across animation, television and film. Besides Optimus Prime, he voiced Eeyore in several Winnie the Pooh projects.
His other famous roles included Ironhide, Monterey Jack and characters from The Smurfs and DuckTales. He also worked on G.I. Joe, Voltron and Chip ‘n Dale Rescue Rangers. Meanwhile, his voice reached audiences beyond animation.
Cullen created the frightening sounds of the Predator in the 1987 action classic. He also voiced King Kong in the 1976 film. Earlier in his career, he worked as an announcer on The Smothers Brothers Comedy Hour.
How Peter Cullen Created Optimus Prime
Cullen once said he was confused when he first auditioned for Optimus Prime.
“I was told it was a hero, and I was told it was a truck,” he recalled.
He drew inspiration from his older brother, Larry, a decorated U.S. Marine. Cullen said his brother became quieter and stronger after serving in Vietnam. That experience helped shape Optimus Prime’s calm and heroic voice.
The character became a huge part of Cullen’s life. His return for the 2007 Transformers movie also delighted longtime fans. He continued voicing Optimus through The Last Knight, Bumblebee and Rise of the Beasts.
A Lasting Legacy
Cullen was born in Montreal on July 28, 1941. He studied at the National Theatre School of Canada and graduated with its first class in 1963.
His talent extended far beyond voice acting. He worked in theatre, radio, television and comedy before becoming an animation legend.
Cullen is survived by his children, Angus, Claire, Pilar and Clay. His work touched generations of fans worldwide.
For many viewers, his voice will always mean one thing: Optimus Prime.
