Two weeks after the death of Peter Cullen, it couldn't be in worse taste.
The official Twitter account "Homeland Security" of the United States used the image of Optimus Prime to promote the ICE agency, which is responsible for combating illegal immigration. Since Donald Trump's return to power in January 2025, this unit has been at the center of regular controversies: disproportionate use of force, murder of opponents, among others.
On September 9, a modified AI visual of Optimus Prime from Transformers Rise of the Beasts was posted on this official Twitter account. It bears the inscription "ICE" along with their badge, all accompanied by the title "Transformers: Age of Deportation". The unanimous reaction from fans in the comments denounces propaganda using pop culture, a common practice of Trumpism on social media.
Hasbro reacted to this, publishing a statement a few hours after the release of these visuals:
Optimus Prime is a beloved character representing humility, leadership, compassion, and justice. Hasbro is aware of the recent posts using his image. These posts were made without permission and do not represent the Transformers brand or Hasbro.
A reminder of this drawing by Daniel Warren Johnson, colored by Mike Spencer:
