08/28/2026
When Peter Cullen prepared for his audition to voice Optimus Prime all he knew was that this character "transformed" into a truck, and was the leader of the peace-loving alien robots called "Autobots". Looking for guidance, he turned to his brother Larry, a decorated U.S. Marine Corps captain. "Be strong enough to be gentle." was his north star. 40+ years later, an entire generation is forever grateful for his model of heroism, wisdom, and compassion. I wish we could have had him for another 40 years, but today was his time to roll out. RIP.
