Fans outraged as Minions 3 announces distant 2027 release date

Fans of the Minions franchise have expressed their frustration upon learning that the highly anticipated "Minions 3" won't be released until 2027. The news comes on the heels of the successful release of "Despicable Me 4," which premiered on July 3, 2024, starring Steve Carell, Chris Renaud, Kristen Wiig, Chris Meledandri, and Joey King.

Illumination Entertainment, the studio behind the franchise, announced that the next installment, "Minions 3," will hit theaters in June 2027. The script will be written by Bryan Lynch, with Pierre Coffin returning as director. The film will be produced by Illumination founder and CEO Chris Meledandri and Bill Ryan.

Since its inception, the Despicable Me and Minions films have collectively grossed nearly $5 billion, making it the largest animated franchise in history. "Minions: The Rise of Gru" shattered July 4 holiday weekend records, bringing in $125 million globally in its opening weekend. "Despicable Me 4" followed suit with an impressive $122.6 million debut.

Despite these successes, fans are eager for more adventures with Gru and his band of minions and are dismayed by the long wait. Social media erupted with complaints following the announcement.

"Why announce it this early if it's going to be a three-year wait?" one critic questioned. Another mocked, "U ain't Rihanna; we ain't gonna wait that long." Others echoed similar sentiments, calling the wait "nuts" and "too far away."

Illumination Entertainment has strategically released its films around the July 4 holiday weekend, a tactic that has proven lucrative. Variety film critic Peter Debruge noted that while the holiday once belonged to Will Smith, it has now become "the domain of Despicable Me movies." For seven out of the last 14 years, the studio has released a film during this weekend, resulting in significant box-office revenue.

Debruge also highlighted the current state of Hollywood, noting that kid-friendly cartoons have been propping up the theatrical box office, especially after the dual writers' and actors' strikes.

While fans may be unhappy about the wait for "Minions 3," the franchise's track record suggests that the film will be worth it.