Canadian voice actor Peter Cullen, best known for providing the iconic voice of Optimus Prime in the Transformers franchise, has died at the age of 85.
Cullen’s death was confirmed by his family in a statement, according to reports.
“Peter Cullen passed away peacefully, surrounded by his loving family — and held in the hearts of his many friends and countless fans worldwide,” the family said.
Born Peter Claver Cullen on July 28, 1941, the veteran voice actor gained international recognition for voicing Optimus Prime in the original Transformers animated series in the 1980s.
He went on to reprise the role in several Transformers productions, including the live-action film franchise that began in 2007.
Beyond Optimus Prime, Cullen lent his distinctive voice to several other memorable characters. He voiced Eeyore in the Winnie the Pooh franchise, Monterey Jack in Chip ’n Dale: Rescue Rangers, KARR in Knight Rider, and provided vocal effects for the title character in Predator.
He also voiced Thaedus in the animated series Invincible.
The cause of death has not been disclosed.
Cullen’s death marks the loss of one of the most recognisable voices in animation and popular culture, with generations of fans having grown up with his portrayal of Optimus Prime and other beloved characters.
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