'Optimus Prime' message to surviving Autobots shared in tribute to Peter Cullen

Tributes started pouring in after news of Peter Cullen’s death surfaced online on Thursday.

Hundreds of people took to social media to mourn the actor who gave voice to Optimus Prime in the Transformers franchise.

A video of Peter Cullen voicing Optimus Prime was widely circulated on social media.

"I am Optimus Prime, and I send this message to any surviving Autobots taking refuge among the stars. We are here. We are waiting," the voice actor says in the clip.

“Can’t replace a voice like that — one of a kind,” said a fan on X.

Another wrote, “This is not happening man, the legendary voice that defined a whole generation has passed away.”

Cullen, who also voiced Eeyore in Disney's Winnie the Pooh franchise, died at the age of 85.

A statement said, "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 honour 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 statement said.

No cause of death was mentioned in the statement.