Universal Dates ‘Donkey’ Movie from ‘Shrek’ Universe for June 2028
Universal Pictures will release a spin-off movie titled Donkey in theaters on Friday, June 30, 2028, according to official project details. The film features the return of Oscar nominee Eddie Murphy to voice the titular character in a story described as the origin of how a donkey became Donkey.
When will the Donkey movie be released?
Universal Pictures has scheduled the film for June 30, 2028. This date coincides with the release of Dynamic Duo from Warner Bros. Pictures Animation, DC Studios, and Swaybox.
Universal previously reserved this specific release window for an “Untitled Illumination Event Film” before assigning it to the Donkey project.
Who is directing and producing the Donkey spin-off?
Charlie Bean, known for The LEGO Ninjago Movie and the 2019 Lady and the Tramp, will direct the film. Matt Flynn, a story artist for The Wild Robot and Puss in Boots: The Last Wish, serves as co-director.
Rebecca Huntley, who produced Kung Fu Panda 4 and The Bad Guys, is the project’s producer. Eddie Murphy previously hinted at the film during his 2024 press tour for Beverly Hills Cop: Axel F.
How does this fit into the wider Shrek franchise?
The Donkey film follows the upcoming release of Shrek 5, scheduled for June 30, 2027. That sequel reunites Eddie Murphy with Mike Myers and Cameron Diaz and arrives 17 years after Shrek Forever After.
The franchise began in 2001 with a film inspired by William Steig’s 1990 book Shrek!, which won the first Academy Award for Best Animated Feature. It has since expanded into three sequels, two Puss in Boots films, a Broadway musical, and Universal Studios Parks attractions.
What may happen next for the series?
Given the success of the Puss in Boots spin-offs, Universal may look to further expand the universe if the Donkey origin story performs well. Future projects could potentially explore other supporting characters from the original 2001 film.
The studio may also coordinate promotional efforts between the 2027 sequel and the 2028 spin-off to maximize consumer product lines and park integration.
Frequently Asked Questions
When is the Donkey movie coming out?
The film is planned for release on June 30, 2028.
Who will voice Donkey in the new movie?
Oscar nominee Eddie Murphy will return to voice the character.
What is the plot of the Donkey spin-off?
Official word states the film will be the origin story of how a donkey became Donkey.
Which character from the Shrek universe would you like to see in a future spin-off?