You’ve watched him steal scenes, crack jokes and talk a mile a minute for more than two decades. Now, one of the most lovable Shrek characters is getting a chance to lead the adventure.
DreamWorks is giving Donkey his own spin off movie, with Donkey set to arrive in theatres on June 30, 2028.
What’s your gut feeling about this? Maybe ’cause I don’t have young kids anymore… for me, it’s m’eh. Okay. Probably won’t watch it, tbh.
Voiced by Eddie Murphy, Donkey has been a fan favourite since the original Shrek, appearing in all four films and returning for Shrek 5, which is scheduled for release in June 2027. Beyond the movies, the wisecracking sidekick has also appeared in television specials, short films, video games and theme park attractions.
Until now, Puss In Boots has been the only Shrek character to receive a feature-length spin off, starring in his own film in 2011 before returning for a sequel in 2022.
According to Variety, Donkey will tell the character’s origin story, with Murphy voicing a younger version as audiences learn how he became the fast-talking companion they first met in Shrek. Charlie Bean, whose directing credits include The Lego Ninjago Movie and Disney’s live-action Lady And The Tramp, will co-direct alongside Matt Flynn, who previously worked as a story artist on Puss In Boots: The Last Wish.
Before Donkey takes centre stage, fans will reunite with the whole gang in Shrek 5. The film brings back Eddie Murphy, Mike Myers and Cameron Diaz, while Zendaya joins the cast as Shrek and Fiona’s daughter.
The fifth instalment was originally expected to arrive earlier, but its release was delayed until June 2027. When the first teaser debuted earlier this year, some fans criticized the updated animation style, with one social media user calling the change “straight up disrespectful.”
Away from the world of Far Far Away, Mike Myers has also hinted that another familiar character could be making a comeback. During a World Cup watch-along, he was asked whether a new Austin Powers movie was in the works, answering with an enthusiastic, “Yes!”
After years of playing the unforgettable sidekick, how do you feel about Donkey getting a chance to prove he can carry a movie all on his own?
