Peter Cullen, the legendary voice actor known for voicing Optimus Prime in the Transformers franchise, has passed away at the age of 85.

Cullen's family confirmed the news, stating that he died peacefully at his home in Los Angeles, surrounded by loved ones. The cause of death has not been disclosed.

Peter Cullen's voice became synonymous with the character of Optimus Prime, the leader of the Autobots, in the original 1980s Transformers animated series. He reprised this iconic role in the live-action films directed by Michael Bay, captivating audiences with his powerful and memorable performances.

His family released a heartfelt statement, urging fans to honor Cullen's legacy by serving their communities with compassion and integrity. They emphasized his famous words: "be strong enough to be gentle." This sentiment reflects the character he portrayed, which resonated with many fans around the world.

In addition to his work in Transformers, Cullen was known for voicing other beloved characters, including Eeyore in Winnie the Pooh, Monterey Jack in Chip 'n Dale Rescue Rangers, and even the Predator in the 1987 film Predator. His versatility in voice acting allowed him to leave a significant mark on various animated series and films.

Cullen's contributions to the entertainment industry have been celebrated by fans and peers alike, and his passing is a significant loss to the voice acting community. He will be remembered not only for his iconic roles but also for his kindness and dedication to his craft.

Rest in peace, Peter Cullen.