Peter Cullen passed away on August 26th 2026 and we pay tribute by talking about his roles, his career and what he meant to us as a performer as THE voice of the most iconic Transformer hero, Optimus Prime. Toon in to listen to us pay homage to the life, the voice and career of the late Peter Cullen.
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Download Episode Subscribe on iTunes On SpotifyOur Look Back at the Career of Peter Cullen
Animation Destination Episode 447 celebrates legendary voice actor Peter Cullen and his unforgettable performance as Optimus Prime in Transformers. Brandon and Mitch explore what made his portrayal of the Autobot leader resonate across generations, including the advice from his brother that helped shape a hero who was “strong enough to be gentle.”
From the emotional impact of The Transformers: The Movie (1986) to Cullen’s return in the live-action films and Transformers Prime, we revisit the moments that defined his connection with fans. We also look beyond the Autobots to his roles as Eeyore in Winnie the Pooh, Monterey Jack in Chip ’n Dale: Rescue Rangers, and the commanding narrator of Voltron and Toonami promos, alongside stories about his longtime connection with fellow voice-acting legend Frank Welker.
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