Peter Cullen, 'Transformers' voice actor, dies at 85: report
FILE-Voice actor Peter Cullen attends the 43rd Annual Daytime Creative Arts Emmy Awards at Westin Bonaventure Hotel on April 29, 2016 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by David Livingston/Getty Images)
Peter Cullen, the voice actor of Optimus Prime in the "Transformers" movie franchise has died. He was 85
Cullen's agent told TMZ that the actor died Wednesday at his home in Los Angeles.
TMZ reported that Cullen's cause of death is unknown.
The actor voiced Optimus Prime, the leader of the Autobots, in the original 1980s "Transformers" animated TV series ... and returned to the role in director Michael Bay's movie series.
Forbes reported that Cullen voiced Optimus Prime in every live-action "Transformers" film as well as "Bumblebee" and "Rise of the Beasts."
Cullen held the role in the modern "Transformers" animated series and "Transformers" video games too.
According to TMZ, Cullen voiced characters like Eeyore in "Winnie The Pooh" and Monterey Jack in "Chip 'n Dale Rescue Rangers," and KARR in "Knight Rider."
Cullen was also the voice of Mario in the original "Donkey Kong" animated series in the 1980s.
Cullen family statement
What they're saying:
TMZ spoke with Cullen's family who stated, "Peter Cullen passed away peacefully, surrounded by his loving family - and held in the hearts of his many friends and countless fans worldwide. His family asks that you honor his remarkable legacy by serving your communities and leading others with compassion, integrity, and loyalty and always remember 'be strong enough to be gentle.'"
The Source: Information for this story was provided by TMZ, who spoke with Peter Cullen's family and obtained a statement, and Forbes. This story was reported from Washington, D.C.