Eddie Murphy to lead Shrek spin-off animation Donkey!

Eddie Murphy is set to reprise his iconic role as Donkey, starring in his own animated origin story film titled 'Donkey!'. DreamWorks Animation confirmed the spin-off, which is slated for a cinematic release in 2028. The movie will delve into how the beloved, talkative companion became the character audiences know from the original 'Shrek' franchise.

The announcement of 'Donkey!' comes a year after the planned release of 'Shrek 5', which is expected in the summer of 2027. This highly anticipated sequel will see the return of Murphy alongside Mike Myers as Shrek and Cameron Diaz as Princess Fiona. Adding to the excitement, Zendaya has also joined the cast of 'Shrek 5', further expanding one of animation's most commercially successful franchises.

'Donkey!' will be directed by Charlie Bean, known for his work on 'The Lego Batman Movie' and the live-action 'Lady and the Tramp'. Rebecca Huntley, who produced 'Kung Fu Panda 4' and 'The Bad Guys', will serve as producer. DreamWorks story artist Matt Flynn will co-direct. The project aims to explore the journey of an ordinary donkey transforming into the endlessly optimistic and humorous character central to the 'Shrek' series.

Before Donkey takes center stage, audiences will journey back to the kingdom of Far Far Away in 'Shrek 5'. Franchise veterans Conrad Vernon and Walt Dohrn are directing the sequel, with Murphy, Myers, and Diaz reprising their roles from over two decades ago. Antonio Banderas, who voiced Puss in Boots in previous 'Shrek' sequels, has not been confirmed for the fifth installment.