Voice Actor Peter Cullen, Iconic Voice of Optimus Prime and Eeyore, Dies at 85
Peter Cullen, the voice actor behind iconic characters Optimus Prime in "Transformers" and Eeyore in the Winnie the Pooh franchise, has passed away at the age of 85.
Portland, OR, August 27, 2026 —
Veteran voice actor Peter Cullen, widely recognized for bringing to life two of popular culture’s most beloved characters, Optimus Prime in the “Transformers” franchise and Eeyore in Disney’s Winnie the Pooh stories, has died. He was 85 years old.
Cullen’s distinctive voice lent gravitas and personality to characters that have resonated with audiences across generations. As the heroic leader of the Autobots, Optimus Prime, he became synonymous with courage and moral authority in the “Transformers” universe. His portrayal of the melancholic but endearing donkey Eeyore in the Winnie the Pooh franchise showcased a different facet of his vocal talent, capturing the character’s gentle sadness and unique charm.
The summary provided states that Peter Cullen passed away at the age of 85. Further details regarding the date, location, or cause of death were not included in the provided summary.
Cullen’s career spanned decades, establishing him as a prominent figure in the voice acting industry. While his roles as Optimus Prime and Eeyore are particularly notable, his extensive work includes numerous other characters across various animated series and films. His contributions have left a lasting impact on animation and popular culture.
The information available does not include details on funeral arrangements or any public statements from family members or representatives. The legacy of his performances, however, continues to be celebrated by fans worldwide.
Story summarized from the original created by The Associated Press on www.oregonlive.com, see more information here.
