Shrek universe expands as 'Donkey' movie lands 2028 release date

DreamWorks confirms Donkey for 2028, with Eddie Murphy returning to voice the fan-favourite character

DreamWorks Animation and Universal Pictures have officially announced a release date for Donkey, the first standalone film centred on one of the Shrek franchise's most popular characters.

The animated spin-off is scheduled to arrive in cinemas on June 30, 2028, with Eddie Murphy returning to voice Donkey. According to the announcement, the film will serve as an origin story, exploring how the talkative and loyal character became the Donkey audiences first met in the original Shrek film.

Donkey will be directed by Charlie Bean, known for The Lego Ninjago Movie and Disney's live-action Lady and the Tramp. Rebecca Huntley will produce the project, while Matt Flynn, whose previous DreamWorks credits include The Wild Robot, Puss in Boots: The Last Wish and The Bad Guys 2, will serve as co-director.

The announcement comes a year ahead of the release of Shrek 5, which is set to debut in summer 2027. Franchise stars Mike Myers, Eddie Murphy and Cameron Diaz are all returning to reprise their iconic roles as Shrek, Donkey and Princess Fiona. Zendaya has also joined the upcoming sequel's cast, while longtime franchise filmmakers Conrad Vernon and Walt Dohrn are directing.

Since debuting in 2001, the Shrek franchise has become one of DreamWorks' biggest successes. The original film won the first Academy Award for Best Animated Feature and was followed by three sequels and two Puss in Boots spin-offs. Together, the films have earned more than $3 billion at the global box office.

The newly announced Donkey spin-off expands the Shrek universe further, giving one of its most beloved characters a leading role for the first time. Variety first reported the film's release date and production details.