Peter Cullen, Voice of Optimus Prime, Dies at 85

Peter Cullen, the Canadian voice actor best known as the heroic Optimus Prime in the Transformers franchise, has died at 85. He passed away on Wednesday at his home in Los Angeles, his agent Kevin Motley confirmed.

His family said in a statement that he died peacefully, surrounded by loved ones, and asked fans to honor his legacy by serving their communities and leading with compassion, integrity, and loyalty. They also recalled his signature advice: "Be strong enough to be gentle."

Cullen first voiced Optimus Prime in the 1980s animated series The Transformers, which depicted the war between the Autobots and Decepticons. After a gap of nearly two decades, he returned to the role for Michael Bay's 2007 live-action film, and continued in sequels, TV shows, and video games.

He once explained that his portrayal of Optimus Prime was inspired by his brother Larry, a Marine Corps veteran. Cullen admired Larry's calm, controlled leadership and applied that attitude to the character, giving Optimus a blend of gentleness, strength, and dignity.

Beyond Transformers, Cullen voiced the 1976 King Kong remake, the evil K.A.R.R. in Knight Rider, and created the eerie clicking sounds for the creature in Predator. Earlier in his career, he worked as a live-action performer and announced for The Smothers Brothers Comedy Hour and The Sonny & Cher Comedy Hour.

Cullen is survived by his four children: Angus, Claire, Pilar, and Clay.