Optimus Prime and Eeyore voice actor Peter Cullen dies at 85

Canadian voice actor Peter Cullen died peacefully at his Los Angeles home aged 85, surrounded by family. He is best remembered as the heroic Optimus Prime in the Transformers franchise since 1984 and as Eeyore in Disney's Winnie the Pooh.

A career-defining role

Cullen first voiced Optimus Prime in the 1984 animated TV series and continued in seven Hollywood films through 2023. His portrayal was shaped by his older brother, a Vietnam veteran, who told him to play the character as a real hero: strong enough to be gentle. Cullen shared his earnings from the role with his brother until the latter's death.

Other memorable roles

He also voiced KARR in Knight Rider, the Predator's clicking sounds in the 1987 Schwarzenegger film, King Kong (1976) and Monterey Jack in Chip 'n Dale Rescue Rangers. He received a lifetime achievement award at the Children's & Family Emmy Awards in 2023. His family asks fans to honour his legacy with compassion, integrity and loyalty.