Peter Cullen, the legendary voice behind Optimus Prime in Transformers and Eeyore in Disney’s Winnie the Pooh, has died at the age of 85.
The Canadian actor became famous for his deep, heroic voice as Optimus Prime, beginning with the Transformers television series in 1984. He later returned to the role for seven Hollywood films released between 2007 and 2023, along with other Transformers projects.
Cullen was also widely known as the voice of Eeyore. He portrayed the beloved but gloomy donkey in The New Adventures of Winnie the Pooh beginning in the late 1980s and continued voicing the character in related television shows, films and games.
His other memorable voice performances included KARR, the evil counterpart of KITT in Knight Rider, as well as the distinctive vocal sounds of the Predator in the 1987 Arnold Schwarzenegger film. He also provided the roars for King Kong in the 1976 movie.
Cullen died Wednesday at his home in Los Angeles, according to a statement.
His family said he passed away peacefully surrounded by loved ones and asked fans to remember his legacy through compassion, integrity and loyalty.
The Inspiration Behind Optimus Prime
Cullen’s iconic Optimus Prime voice was inspired in part by his older brother, a decorated US Marine and Vietnam War veteran.
His brother encouraged him to portray Optimus Prime as a genuine hero rather than a stereotypical Hollywood character. That advice helped Cullen create the calm, powerful and compassionate voice that became synonymous with the character.
Cullen continued to honor his brother’s influence throughout his career.
A Career Spanning Generations
Cullen began his career in Canadian television and radio before appearing on programs including The Sonny & Cher Show. He eventually focused primarily on voice acting.
His extensive credits included Monterey Jack in Chip ‘n Dale Rescue Rangers, along with roles in animated series such as Spider-Man, Donkey Kong, Alvin & the Chipmunks, Dungeons & Dragons, My Little Pony, DuckTales and Gummi Bears.
His performance as Optimus Prime earned him a Daytime Emmy nomination in 2011. In 2023, he received a Lifetime Achievement Award at the Children’s & Family Emmy Awards.
For millions of fans, Peter Cullen’s unmistakable voice became part of their childhood memories.
From the heroic Optimus Prime to the lovable Eeyore, his performances helped define characters that continue to be loved around the world.
Peter Cullen was 85. His voice may be gone, but his legendary characters and remarkable legacy will live on.
