NEW YORK – Peter Cullen, the beloved voice actor known for creating iconic characters like Optimus Prime in the 1984 animated series “Transformers” and Eeyore from the Winnie the Pooh franchise, has passed away at the age of 85.
Cullen’s agent, Kevin Motley, confirmed that he died in his home in Los Angeles. The family released a statement requesting that people honor Cullen’s legacy by serving their communities with compassion, integrity, and loyalty. They encouraged everyone to remember his words: “be strong enough to be gentle.”
Cullen’s extensive career began with him announcing on “The Smothers Brothers Comedy Hour” in the late 1960s. He contributed to various comedy sketches and later transitioned to voice acting in shows like “The Smurfs” and different iterations of “G.I. Joe.” However, it was his role as Optimus Prime that truly defined his career.
The original “Transformers” cartoon may have aired for only a few years, but its impact was profound, spawning a massive toy line, several spinoff series, and a successful comic book franchise. In 2007, Michael Bay launched a live-action film series that has grossed billions globally.
When Cullen auditioned for the role of Optimus Prime, he initially thought he was voicing a truck. Yet, when he learned more about the character—a heroic Autobot leader who transforms into a red cabover semitrailer—he found inspiration from his older brother, a U.S. Marine who served in Vietnam. Cullen stated, “He was my hero, and he certainly was the mainstay behind the character.”
Cullen’s powerful baritone voice brought life to Optimus Prime in multiple films, including “Transformers: Revenge of the Fallen,” “Dark of the Moon,” “Age of Extinction,” “The Last Knight,” “Bumblebee,” and “Rise of the Beasts” in 2023. His memorable lines, such as “I am Optimus Prime, and I send this message to any surviving Autobots taking refuge among the stars: We are here. We are waiting,” resonate with fans of all ages.
Beyond Optimus Prime, Cullen also voiced Eeyore across various “Winnie the Pooh” projects, including the beloved TV series that aired from 1988 to 1991. His versatility extended to voicing the villainous KARR in “Knight Rider” and even King Kong in the 1976 remake.
In a 2008 interview with The New York Times, Cullen reflected on his connection to Optimus Prime, saying, “Optimus is my favorite character because it’s been so well received and it’s had such an effect on so many people.” He also mentioned Eeyore, who has touched the hearts of countless children.
Cullen had a unique role in the film “Predator,” where he provided the clicking sounds for the alien creature, inspired by the sounds of a dying horseshoe crab. His innovative work earned him recognition, including a lifetime achievement award at the Children’s & Family Emmy Awards in 2023 and a Daytime Emmy nomination in 2011 for his work as Optimus Prime.
Cullen loved attending fan conventions, where he often met people from different generations. He shared that he would frequently get emotional when meeting fans, especially when parents expressed their excitement more than their children. “I expect that I will run into a father with his son, and the father will more than likely get choked up,” he said before MegaCon Orlando in 2019.
Peter Cullen is survived by his four children: Angus, Claire, Pilar, and Clay. His legacy as a voice actor will continue to inspire fans and aspiring artists alike.
