Icons Unearthed: Transformers

The team look at the history of the Transformers, which began as a modest import toy and became a multi-billion dollar merchandise line that would inspire a multi-billion dollar film franchise.

Seasons

1. A Marvel-Ous Marketing Campaign

Air Date: 2026-04-04

In the '80s, Hasbro eyed Japan's transforming robots craze, and created their own story-driven line in collaboration with Marvel Comics to break into the US market.

2. It's Over Prime

Air Date: 2026-04-04

Transformers soars in popularity, but Hasbro sidelines Marvel and kills off Optimus Prime to push new toys in a risky move that could make or break the franchise.

3. The Odd Couple Transforming Hollywood

Air Date: 2026-04-11

Transformers were fading by the 2000s, but Steven Spielberg saw big-screen potential for the franchise and tapped Michael Bay, who doubted an '80s toy would be popular with a new generation.

4. Roll out the Sequels

Air Date: 2026-04-11

When Transformers hits big at the box office, Paramount rushes a sequel amid a writers' strike, tight deadlines, and Megan Fox and Shia LaBeouf dominating the tabloids.

5. The Sword in the Energon Cube

Air Date: 2026-04-18

Michael Bay returns to the Transformers films with huge Hong Kong set pieces, but VFX strain and convoluted medieval lore leave audiences groaning.

6. Autobots Reboot!

Air Date: 2026-04-18

Michael Bay exits Transformers, leaving Paramount to reboot the franchise with two new directors who have to try to recapture the franchise's spark.

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Rating

0.0/10

Release Date

2026-04-04

Episodes

6 (1 seasons)

Status

Returning Series

Cast

Glenn Morshower

Self - Narrator (voice)

Production Companies

The Nacelle Company