Transformers superfan Aston Merrygold says the 40th anniversary Apology Tour for THE TRANSFORMERS: THE MOVIE is "absolutely necessary" - because killing off Optimus Prime left an entire generation reeling.

Fresh research from Hasbro reveals just how deep the wound goes, with almost one in five Brits admitting Prime's big‑screen death in the 1986 animated science fiction action film genuinely shook them as children. And the moment clearly burned itself into memory: 68 per cent say they can still picture the scene the first time they watched it, while 34 per cent confess it left a lasting emotional dent.

Speaking exclusively to BANG Showbiz, ambassador and lifelong fan Aston - who is best known as a member of boy band JLS - said: "My first reaction - as far as I can remember -- was pure shock. You grow up thinking the hero always wins, no matter how bad it gets. So seeing one of your favourite characters killed off so early, you're like: whoa, wait… what? This isn't right."

He added that only a handful of animated moments hit that hard, comparing it to Mufasa's death in The Lion King.

Aston said: "As a kid, it feels impossible. Optimus Prime doesn't die -- he's supposed to win. Fair play for doing it, but the apology tour is absolutely necessary."

To mark the milestone, the Redemption Rollout competition - in partnership with Smyths Toys Superstores -- is giving 40 fans money‑can't‑buy prize bundles, including tickets to 4K cinema screenings, an exclusive first look at the new Transformers music video, special anniversary merch and more.

Entries are open now at TransformersTheRedemptionRollout.com.