Peter Cullen—Iconic Voice of Optimus Prime and Eeyore—passes away

Sun Sep 06 2026 05:20:21 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)

Peter Cullen, voice of Transformers’ Optimus Prime and Disney’s Eeyore, dies at 85.

Canadian veteran actor Peter Cullen, 85, known worldwide for his roles in Transformers, Winnie the Pooh and numerous animated classics, has died. He began voicing Optimus Prime in 1984 and reprised the role in seven films through 2023. Cullen also gave life to T‑1000 in “The New Adventures of Winnie the Pooh,” KARR in “Knight Rider,” and the King‑Kong roar in 1976's “King Kong.” His legacy includes a Daytime Emmy nomination, a lifetime achievement award from the Children’s & Family Emmys and a heartfelt tribute from his own family. The voice community mourns the loss of a legend whose influence spans generations.

Peter Cullen—Iconic Voice of Optimus Prime and Eeyore—passes away

Canadian voice legend Peter Cullen, famed for bringing Transformers’ Optimus Prime and Disney’s Eeyore to life, died at age 85.

Peter Cullen standing and smiling in front of a Transformers logo backdrop

Born in Canada, Cullen’s breakthrough came when he voiced the heroic, deep–voiced Optimus Prime in the 1984 Transformers TV series. He carried the character over into seven Hollywood films from 2007 to 2023.

Beyond the Autobots, Cullen was the melancholic voice of donkey Eeyore in the 1980s “The New Adventures of Winnie the Pooh.” He also brought life to KARR in Knight Rider, the roar of King‑Kong in the 1976 film, and the eerie whine of the Predator in a 1987 movie.

In 2011 he earned a Daytime Emmy nomination for outstanding performer in an animated programme and, in 2023, was honored with a lifetime achievement award at the Children’s & Family Emmy Awards.

Cullen’s voice became synonymous with iconic characters in animation and film, influencing generations of fans and fellow actors alike.

He died on Wednesday at his Los Angeles home. A statement said he passed peacefully, surrounded by his family and loved ones.

He wished fans to remember his legacy by living compassionately, acting with integrity, and remaining strong yet gentle—a mantra he reminded his brother passed on to him.

Peter Cullen’s spirited career—from Canadian TV and radio to beloved animated roles—has left an unforgettable mark on pop culture.

Rest in peace, Peter Cullen.