Transformers’ latest installment marks Peter Cullen’s last performance as Optimus Prime.

Hasbro and Fathom Entertainment are celebrating the 40th anniversary of *The Transformers: The Movie* this month, bringing the beloved animated film back to theaters. This occasion is tinged with sadness for fans, as the legendary voice of Optimus Prime, Peter Cullen, passed away at 80 in late August. However, fans will have the chance to enjoy one last performance from Cullen as the Autobot leader through a new short film accompanying the anniversary rerelease.

The newly announced short, titled *Optimus Prime: Awakening*, is a heartfelt 12-minute animated feature crafted as a tribute to the Transformers community and the late Cullen. It will be shown alongside select screenings of the 4K version of *The Transformers: The Movie*, which hits theaters from September 17 to 22. The short promises to deliver “emotional storytelling [and] electric action,” featuring new performances from Frank Welker (who voices Megatron and Soundwave) and Cullen in his final original role as Optimus Prime.

Welker expressed his thoughts on the iconic duo, stating, “Optimus Prime and Megatron were made for each other. After all, one needs the perfect hero against the epitome of evil to create great drama. Peter’s portrayal of Prime was born of his own personal beliefs; honesty, loyalty, and always insisting on doing the right thing. This made it easy to be friends. Returning as Megatron and Soundwave for one final story opposite Peter’s Optimus in *Optimus Prime: Awakening* was a real gift. I will miss my friend, but that voice and his heart and values will always be part of Optimus Prime.”

In a statement, Hasbro and Fathom noted that Cullen’s return to the role was deeply meaningful for him, describing it as a “homecoming” to a character he had brought to life for over 40 years.

The animation and visuals for *Optimus Prime: Awakening* are being produced by The Third Floor, a studio recognized for its work on *Predator: Killer of Killers*.

Tickets for the rerelease of *Transformers: The Movie*—dubbed an “Apology Tour” for the film that saw the demise of Optimus Prime—are available on Fathom’s website.

Commemorated by Autobots and Decepticons alike.