Donkey Spinoff Set for June 30, 2028

Universal Pictures and DreamWorks Animation have confirmed that “Donkey,” a prequel centered on the Shrek sidekick, will open on June 30, 2028. Eddie Murphy returns to voice the title character. The film is directed by Charlie Bean, co-directed by Matt Flynn, and produced by Rebecca Huntley.

Hollywood ReporterDeadline Hollywood‘Shrek’ Spinoff ‘Donkey’ Gets Release Date, Eddie Murphy’s Beloved Character Returns to the Big ScreenVariety MagazineThe Wrap

The Shrek series debuted in 2001, earning roughly $500 million worldwide and winning the first Academy Award for Best Animated Feature. Its three sequels and two Puss in Boots spinoffs have raised total franchise revenue above $3.5 billion, with expectations to exceed $4 billion after Shrek 5 (2027).

‘Shrek’ Spinoff ‘Donkey’ Gets Release Date, Eddie Murphy’s Beloved Character Returns to the Big ScreenShrek Franchise Expands as Donkey Spinoff Movie Gets Release DateVariety MagazineThe Wrap

Eddie Murphy returns as Donkey. Shrek 5 will feature Mike Myers (Shrek), Cameron Diaz (Fiona) and Zendaya as Shrek’s child. Charlie Bean directs; Matt Flynn co-directs; Rebecca Huntley produces.

Hollywood ReporterVariety Magazine‘Shrek’ Spinoff ‘Donkey’ Gets Release Date, Eddie Murphy’s Beloved Character Returns to the Big ScreenShrek Franchise Expands as Donkey Spinoff Movie Gets Release DateThe Wrap

• Apr 2023: “Donkey” announced with Shrek 5.

Shrek Franchise Expands as Donkey Spinoff Movie Gets Release Date‘Shrek’ Spinoff ‘Donkey’ Gets Release Date, Eddie Murphy’s Beloved Character Returns to the Big ScreenThe WrapVariety Magazine

• 2024-26: Murphy confirms; animation proceeds.

Hollywood Reporter

• Jun 30, 2027: Shrek 5 releases; Jun 30, 2028: “Donkey” opens.

Shrek Franchise Expands as Donkey Spinoff Movie Gets Release Date

First Shrek film: $494 million (or $500 million) worldwide. Four Shrek titles total $2.9 billion; two Puss in Boots films >$3 billion. Franchise earnings exceed $3.5 billion, projected >$4 billion after Shrek 5.

‘Shrek’ Spinoff ‘Donkey’ Gets Release Date, Eddie Murphy’s Beloved Character Returns to the Big ScreenShrek Franchise Expands as Donkey Spinoff Movie Gets Release DateVariety MagazineThe Wrap

Universal and DreamWorks said in a joint release that “Donkey” is the eighth Shrek film, an origin story for the sidekick, and confirmed the June 30, 2028 date. The studios noted its place in a slate that also includes Shrek 5 and upcoming live-action projects.

Shrek Franchise Expands as Donkey Spinoff Movie Gets Release Date‘Shrek’ Spinoff ‘Donkey’ Gets Release Date, Eddie Murphy’s Beloved Character Returns to the Big ScreenThe WrapVariety MagazineDonkey’s Shrek Spinoff Release Date & Timeline Placement Officially Revealed

• “Donkey’s going to have his own movie, own little story with his dragon wife and his kids that are half-dragon and half-donkeys…They’ve written this funny story.” — Eddie Murphy, ScreenRant interview

Deadline Hollywood

• “Donkey is a great character to play. I love the whole cast. So I was excited when it was like, ‘Hey, they’re doing another one,’ and they want to do a Donkey one, too. I’m totally into it.” — Eddie Murphy, The Hollywood Reporter

Hollywood Reporter

• “we're doing a Donkey movie. Just Donkey. Donkey's got his own movie. Donkey got his own movie! I'll be in full Donkey mode in about a year.” — Eddie Murphy, CBR interview

Shrek Franchise Expands as Donkey Spinoff Movie Gets Release Date

Sources differ on the original Shrek film’s worldwide gross: Deadline reports roughly $500 million, while The Hollywood Reporter cites $494 million. Both figures are used in franchise revenue calculations.

‘Shrek’ Spinoff ‘Donkey’ Gets Release Date, Eddie Murphy’s Beloved Character Returns to the Big Screen

Shrek 5 opens June 30, 2027, reuniting the original trio and adding Zendaya as Shrek’s child. The sequel may plant Easter eggs for “Donkey.” DreamWorks hints at further franchise extensions beyond 2028, details pending.

Shrek Franchise Expands as Donkey Spinoff Movie Gets Release Date