So I had been eating lunch on my couch and then my phone buzzed. I checked a group chat and then it said that Peter Cullen had died. At first, I thought it was a lie, so I checked for myself. Imagine my shock when I discovered... it was true. For 40 YEARS this man played the greatest hero of all time, our favourite Optimus Prime. And now he's gone. I remember him saying that he got his idea for Optimus' voice from his brother, Larry, and that was the definitive voice of Optimus Prime. Learning about his passing, I had to be honest, I wanted to just cry. Since my very early child years, likely when I was 2-3, I watched Rescue Bots and the moment Optimus spoke and was on screen, I knew; "This Optimus is my favourite character." And I always wanted to meet him and tell him how much he meant to me. I never got the chance. I wish I did. I've heard many versions of Prime's voice. None of them stood out as much as Cullen's. There was just something about it, how kind and gentle it was. I've also heard many imitations of Cullen's voices, and even the most accurate ones felt like they were missing something. What I like the call, the "Cullen Touch". (I should trademark that. I COINED THAT Y'ALL) Peter's brother Larry had said "Be strong enough to be gentle." And Peter did just that. Listen closely to how Cullen played Optimus. There's a hint of kindness, gentleness, softness, and hope beneath it. Optimus is not just some big heroic leader with a commanding presence. He's a selfless, kind, and gentle hero. Optimus is a powerful being, but he chooses kindness over power. That's what many imitations or other versions of his voice is missing. Mr. Cullen, you will live on in our memories. We miss you dearly. We have to face it. Optimus isn't really fully getting up this time. Seriously. I don't want to sound grim, but Peter Cullen was the definitive voice of Optimus. The Optimus everyone thinks of. I miss him a lot. We will have to accept that whatever film comes next for Transformers, Cullen isn't going to be there. Until All Are One. "Above all, do not lament my absence, for in my spark, I know that this is not the end, but merely a new beginning. Simply put, another transformation." -Optimus Prime / Peter Cullen
(Despite not knowing Cullen personally, it feels like a mentor or father figure has been lost. I'm grieving myself. If y'all need anything like someone to talk to about this, just let me know.)
