‘DONKEY’ will release on June 30, 2028 in theaters
Universal and DreamWorks Animation recently confirmed that Donkey is officially stepping into the spotlight. The beloved, chatty character from the Shrek franchise will star in his own self-titled spinoff film. This project marks a significant expansion for the animated universe that first captured audiences decades ago.
The studios have scheduled the new movie for a theatrical release on June 30, 2028. This announcement follows years of fan anticipation regarding the future of the series. The film plans to explore the origin story of how a standard donkey transformed into the iconic character fans know today.
Eddie Murphy will return to provide the voice for his signature role in the upcoming movie. Murphy has voiced the character since the original film debuted in 2000. His performance helped the first Shrek installment earn the first-ever Academy Award for best animated feature.
Charlie Bean will lead the production as the director for the spinoff. Bean previously directed The Lego Ninjago Movie and the live-action adaptation of Lady and The Tramp. He will work alongside co-director Matt Flynn and producer Rebecca Huntley to bring this new story to life.
Fans will not have to wait until 2028 to return to this fictional world. Universal and DreamWorks plan to release Shrek 5 in the summer of 2027. That film features the return of Mike Myers and Cameron Diaz, along with new cast member Zendaya.
The Shrek franchise has maintained immense popularity since its inception at the turn of the millennium. Across four main films and two Puss in Boots spinoffs, the series has grossed more than $3 billion globally. This new project aims to continue that success by focusing on Shrekâs deeply needy best friend.
Source: https://variety.com/2026/film/news/donkey-shrek-spinoff-movie-release-date-eddie-murphy-1236790721/
