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Veteran Canadian actor and renowned voice artist Peter Cullen, widely recognised as the legendary voice of Optimus Prime, has died at the age of 85.

Cullen reportedly passed away peacefully at his Los Angeles home on Wednesday, surrounded by members of his family and other loved ones.

His family confirmed his death in a statement but did not reveal the cause.

The actor achieved worldwide recognition in 1984 after taking on the voice of Optimus Prime, the respected leader of the Autobots, in the original Transformers animated television series.

His deep, commanding voice and distinctive delivery helped establish Optimus Prime as one of animation’s most recognisable and cherished characters.

Cullen later reprised the role in several live-action Transformers movies, beginning with Michael Bay’s 2007 adaptation, allowing a new generation of audiences to connect with the character.

His career, however, extended far beyond the Transformers franchise.

He was also known for voicing Eeyore, the quiet and gloomy donkey from various Winnie the Pooh productions, while also portraying other memorable characters, including K.A.R.R. in Knight Rider.

The actor further contributed his distinctive vocal talents to the fearsome Predator in the 1987 science-fiction film Predator.

Cullen’s portrayal of Optimus Prime became particularly significant in popular culture after the character was killed in The Transformers: The Movie in 1986.

The death of the beloved Autobot leader triggered an emotional reaction from fans, with many demanding that the character be brought back.

In previous interviews, Cullen spoke warmly about his enduring connection with Optimus Prime, describing his return to the role years later as “slipping into an old pair of very comfortable shoes,” while expressing appreciation for being part of a franchise that eventually became a worldwide phenomenon.

In their tribute, Cullen’s family remembered him as a compassionate and principled man whose work touched and inspired generations of fans around the globe.

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

Cullen’s death brings an end to a remarkable era for millions of Transformers fans who grew up listening to the unforgettable voice associated with one of the franchise’s most famous lines: “Autobots, roll out.”

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