BotCon ‘27 - Chicago, July 16-18

North America’s first and largest Transformers Convention! Est. 1994.

[BotCon ‘27 - Chicago, July 16-18 @BotCon]

* Dan last voiced Bumblebee for the Transformers Generation One script read that was released in theaters two years ago.

* This was a G1 continuation of the 1986 movie, and they brought back Peter and Frank for that.

* It had been 20 years since Peter had voiced Optimus in 2007, with Garry Chalk and Neil Kaplan having voiced Prime in the intermediary, yet the fandom lost its collective mind at the idea of anyone other than Peter voicing Optimus on the big screen.

So 100% this is a legitimate concern with someone who has engaged with the fandom since BotCon 2004 and ALL the G1 actors still with us should be considered for their original roles.

[Mike Seibert Radio Podcast - TF:TM Hype Guy @MikeSibertRadio]

I love Dan, but why is he all pissed off about this, here, now?
When was the last time he voiced Bee anyway?
How many shows and movies have been released since?

Why's he so mad now?

[BotCon ‘27 - Chicago, July 16-18 @BotCon]

Would be great if everyone showed up for Dan the way the fandom showed up for Peter back in 2006 for the live action film casting. @ThatRyanParrott @TFHypeGuy @TF_Moments

[BotCon ‘27 - Chicago, July 16-18 @BotCon]

Did you see the 1986 Transformers The Movie in the theater this weekend? Did you stay for the after credit feature Optimus Prime: Awakening?

Turns out there there was one last after credit feature many people missed!

[BotCon ‘27 - Chicago, July 16-18 @BotCon]

“Do not grieve. Soon I shall be one with the Matrix. Ultra Magnus, it is to you, old friend, I shall pass the Matrix of Leadership as it was passed to me… One day, an Autobot shall rise from our ranks, and use the power of the Matrix to light our darkest hour. Until that day, till all are one.”

[BotCon ‘27 - Chicago, July 16-18 @BotCon]

The fandom is divided so you all tell us:

A. Hero - Have none of you haters ever seen Wicked or the Rocky Horror Picture Show?

B. Villain - Let me relive my childhood trauma in peace!

We will tally up the results.

[Jay D3po @Drunk3po]

This Guy stood up in the theater to do this!! He’s my hero

[BotCon ‘27 - Chicago, July 16-18 @BotCon]

Looks like Bumblebee also noticed that he didn’t sound like himself.

[BotCon ‘27 - Chicago, July 16-18 @BotCon]

That sure doesn’t sound like Dan Gilvezan? 🤔

[BotCon ‘27 - Chicago, July 16-18 @BotCon]

Today marks the 40th Anniversary return of Transformers The Movie to the big screen! There have been many iconic movie posters produced for the movie since 1986, from all around the world. These have included international releases, VHS, Laser-Disc, DVD, Blu-ray, product promotions, and more. Nothing is better though than the original though, with Optimus Prime shining bright firing straight up at Unicron! Check out the special screening at a theater near you, and let us know your thoughts on the all new bonus feature Transformers: Awakening!

[BotCon ‘27 - Chicago, July 16-18 @BotCon]

When you are at @FANEXPODallas with your partners @Blokees and you see the line to sign the guestbook for the late Peter Cullen is longer than the lines for half the guests that are at the show.

Speaks volumes to the reach he had doesn’t it?

Thanks again for all the memories going all the way back to 1997!

[BotCon ‘27 - Chicago, July 16-18 @BotCon]

That sure doesn’t sound like Dan Gilvezan? 🤔

[DiscussingFilm @DiscussingFilm]

First clip from ‘OPTIMUS PRIME AWAKENING’.

The new short film stars Peter Cullen in his final performance as Optimus Prime.

(Source: @ComplexPop)

[BotCon ‘27 - Chicago, July 16-18 @BotCon]

Over the last week, we have seen many tributes on various social media platforms from fans/friends/collaborators from across the world. As Peter is laid to rest today, take a moment to share your memories and sign the Forest Lawn guestbook. For generations, this has been the traditional way to pass along condolences to the family, so share your memories at his page and let’s continue the great outpouring of appreciation for the late Mr. Cullen. https://t.co/UaTaPOopSc

[Metal Cardbot @MetalCardbot_US]

We will be posting a profile update daily spotlighting each of the Season 1 characters you can purchase RIGHT NOW!

Today’s featured character is none other than Blue Cop AKA Blue Star!

[Metal Cardbot @MetalCardbot_US]

Tuesday Character Spotlight - Shadow X

[Metal Cardbot @MetalCardbot_US]

The breakout star from Metal Cardbot Season 1 Wave 1 - Black Hook aka Steel Hook. What kid doesn’t want a transforming Pirate Ship? What adult collector doesn’t want a transforming Pirate Ship!

#metalcardbot #blackhook #steelhook #machinacore

[Metal Cardbot @MetalCardbot_US]

It took all we could muster to spotlight MCB Buster!

#metalcardbot #bustergallon #blustergale #samg #machinacore

[BotCon ‘27 - Chicago, July 16-18 @BotCon]

Interesting phrasing from the official announcement: “Final original voice performance as Optimus Prime”. We read there was some plans for future uses of his voice, but details are unclear. Either way, will the original voice of Prime return in future projects? Guess we will stay tuned!

- From the Transformers Facebook page -

Optimus Prime: Awakening is coming to the big screen.

The brand-new 12-minute animated short will debut exclusively in theaters after The Transformers: The Movie, returning for its 40th anniversary beginning September 17. Featuring Frank Welker as Megatron and Soundwave and the late Peter Cullen in his final original voice performance as Optimus Prime, this animated short brings a new chapter of Transformers storytelling to the big screen.

In light of Peter’s passing, we are especially honored to share this performance with the Transformers community and celebrate the extraordinary legacy he leaves behind.

[DiscussingFilm @DiscussingFilm]

First look at ‘OPTIMUS PRIME AWAKENING’, starring Peter Cullen in his final performance as Optimus Prime.

The 12-minute animated short is described as a love letter to the Transformers community & Peter Cullen.

(Source: https://t.co/A0jF3owm1k)

[TFHypeGuy @TFHypeGuy]

OPTIMUS PRIME: AWAKENING is a 12 minute animated short animated by The Third Floor known for their work on 'Predator: Killer of Killers'

The Short will feature Peter Cullen's FINAL PERFORMANCE as Optimus Prime.

Attached to the 1986 Re-release, check the link below for tickets.

[BotCon ‘27 - Chicago, July 16-18 @BotCon]

A Tribute to Peter Cullen

Few voices have inspired generations quite like Peter Cullen's. As the original voice of Optimus Prime, he brought strength, compassion, and unwavering hope to one of the most beloved characters in popular culture. His performances taught millions that true leadership is measured not by power, but by courage, humility, and kindness.

Through decades of storytelling, his work became more than entertainment—it became part of countless childhoods and lasting memories. His iconic delivery of "Autobots, roll out!" and the quiet wisdom he gave Optimus Prime will continue to resonate with fans around the world.

Transformers fans got a chance to meet the “real” Optimus Prime at BotCon in 1997, and he was just as kind in person as he was on the screen. Every time Peter was at a show in the years to follow it was a true pleasure to have him as part of the event. In 2011 his years of work as Optimus were honored as he was inducted in to the Transformers Hall of Fame. In 2023 he was awarded a lifetime achievement award at the Children’s Emmys.

Peter Cullen's legacy is one of extraordinary talent, generosity of spirit, and a voice that defined a hero for generations. His influence on animation, film, and popular culture will endure for years to come.

[BotCon ‘27 - Chicago, July 16-18 @BotCon]

Check out the listings for a look at the toys, character bios, and then get your display shelves ready for even more Metal Madness! Season 2 Wave 1 is due to arrive late fall 2026, just in time for the holidays.

Get your order in today and then be sure to follow along on our Facebook page for weekly Metal Cardbot updates!

[BotCon ‘27 - Chicago, July 16-18 @BotCon]

You may have seen them at BotCon last month... Metal Cardbot Season 2 is on the way!

Agabyss Distribution and SAMG are happy to announce that there are not one, but two new waves of Metal Cardbot about to hit the United States!

[BotCon ‘27 - Chicago, July 16-18 @BotCon]

Pre-order the latest Metal Cardbot action figures now, individually or as a bundle of all 6 toys where you will receive exclusive bonus items. We will be revealing those next month. (For a hint, just check out the Season 1 Wave 1 bundle, we really go all out to make these bundle a MUST HAVE!)