Summary
Optimus Prime is one of the most iconic characters from theTransformersfranchise. As the leader of the Autobots, Optimus Prime is beloved by the heroes of the series because of his heroic loyalty towards his allies, and his kind and empathetic approach to leadership.
While every Autobot looks up to Optimus Prime as their leader and respects him, there are a few of them that are particularly close to him and share a relationship with him that transcends their rank as an Autobot. In fact, Optimus Prime also has some allies outside the Autobots in someTransformersmedia.
8Elita One
Optimus Prime’s Only Romantic Interest
When it comes to Optimus Prime’s most trusted confidantes, it’s difficult to think of anyone other than Elita One. She has been with him throughout his journey, ever sincehe was just known as Orion Pax. She even goes on to become a romantic partner to him.
When it comes to Optimus Prime’s emotions, Elita One is among the characters that keep him grounded the most. As a noteworthy and selfless leader on her own, she also often challenges Optimus whenever he makes questionable decisions.
7Jazz
His Original Second in Command
While this character isn’t known to many of the newer fans of the franchise, Jazz was the original second in command to Optimus Prime. InThe Transformersanimated series from 1986, Jazz is often seen leading the Autobots alongside Optimus Prime, ensuring they follow his command without straying.
Jazz is also extremely popular because of his cool factor. Optimus Prime trusts him to help him lead the Autobots, and he does sowith diligence and bravery. However, Jazz also has a lighthearted and playful side to his personality, which makes him an enjoyable character.
Bumblebee is themost popular transformer in theTransformersfranchise, thanks in part to the live-action movies that featured him heavily. He’s also one of Optimus Prime’s closest friends and longest serving allies. Unlike most Autobots, Bumblebee’s relationship with Optimus goes beyond his role among the Autobots as a scout. Optimus Prime perceives Bumblebee as a son.
Bumblebee looks up to Optimus Prime not only as a leader, but also a father figure who took him in when he had nobody to count on. InTransformers: One, Jazz and Bumblebee both met Optimus back when he was just a miner bot without a cog as Orion Pax. They’ve both known him longer than most of his other friends and allies.
5Ultra Magnus
Optimus Prime’s Brother
Ultra Magnusisn’t a very popular character, mainly because of his inconsistent depictions and lore across the franchise. But he is often depicted as Optimus Prime’s brother. Ultra Magnus usually serves as the military leader of the Autobots, or as the leader of his own group of Autobots.
There are versions of Ultra Magnus that cause some tension between the Autobots with an authoritarian and disciplinary leadership style, like inTransformers: Primeand the IDW comics. But this version of the character mellows down after learning that the Autobots treat each other like family, rather than an organized military group.
4Ironhide
Optimus' Most Trusted Lieutenant
Among the most popular Autobots that isn’t Optimus Prime or Bumblebee is Ironhide. He is depicted in most newer forms of Transformers Media as the second-in-command to Optimus Prime. A disciplined warrior with notable leadership qualities, Ironhide rarely, if ever, disappoints Optimus Prime.
He also looks up to Optimus as a mentor figure to learn from. Ironhide is also a capable fighter who will put his life on the line to protect the Autobots and their cause.
3Arcee
She’s Like a Daughter to Optimus
Arcee is the most popular female transformer in the franchise, and the first female transformer to be depicted in mainstreamTransformersmedia. Her success led to characters like Elita One, Beta, and Chromia. She is often depicted as a daughter figure to Optimus Prime.
She’s a capable servant to the Autobot cause, and can hold her own in battle. Regardless of her strength, though, Optimus appears to be protective towards her in a way a father figure would, like he is with Bumblebee.
Ratchet is the healer for the Autobot faction. He’s very capable, and is depicted as someone who cares about helping other Transformers and saving their lives when they suffer grievous wounds in battle. Optimus Prime trusts Ratchet with his life, and has immense respect for him.
In several cartoons, Ratchet also has a cynical side to him that was developed as a result of the Cybertronian war. This sometimes leaves him on edge and leads to him making some questionable decisions. Optimus generally regards this attitude with concern, and tries to help Ratchet see the light.
1Optimus Primal
Optimus Is an Inspiration To Him
Optimus Primal is among the more recent additions to theTransformersfranchise. He’s theleader of the Maximals, a group depicted as the descendants of the Autobots. He’s christened as Optimus Primal because he’s the descendent of Optimus Prime.
There are certain versions of Optimus Primal that are allies with Optimus Prime and the Autobots. For instance, inTransformers: Rise of the Beasts, the Maximals are depicted as a group of transformers from another world, where they’ve heard of Optimus Prime and the Autobots' exploits. He looks up to and respects Optimus Prime as a legendary leader and inspiration.
