Eddie Murphy Finally Delivers Huge Update on ‘Shrek 5’ and ‘Donkey’ Spin-Off Movie [Exclusive]

As we approach the twenty-fifth anniversary of Shrek’s debut, fans have reason to celebrate once again. It has been nearly 15 years since Shrek, Donkey, and Princess Fiona last embarked on their adventures. The good news? You won’t have to wait much longer to see them return to the big screen. In an exclusive interview with Collider’s Steve Weintraub, Eddie Murphy revealed some thrilling updates for fans of the beloved Shrek franchise. Not only is a new Shrek movie in production, but Murphy also confirmed that Donkey—one of the franchise’s most beloved characters—will be getting his own standalone film.

The Return of Shrek

The Shrek franchise has long been a cornerstone of modern animation, known for its witty humor, memorable characters, and heartwarming stories. The original Shrek movie debuted in 2001, and since then, it has spawned four feature films, numerous spin-offs, and even a Tony Award-winning Broadway musical. The series has remained a cultural touchstone, beloved by audiences of all ages.

In his interview, Eddie Murphy excitedly shared, “We started doing Shrek 4 or [Shrek] 5 months ago. I did this, I recorded the first act, and we’ll be doing it this year, we’ll finish it up. Shrek is coming out, and Donkey’s gonna have his own movie. We’re gonna do Donkey as well. So we’re gonna do a Shrek, and we’re doing a Donkey [movie].” Murphy’s enthusiasm for the project is palpable, and his portrayal of Donkey has always been a highlight of the series.

Donkey’s Standalone Adventure

Donkey has always been the unsung hero of the Shrek franchise. Voiced by Eddie Murphy, Donkey is a fast-talking, hilariously upbeat sidekick who brings a whirlwind of wit and charm to every scene. Murphy’s performance is nothing short of genius, infusing Donkey with an energy that’s as infectious as it is entertaining.

A standalone Donkey movie promises to explore new dimensions of the character, potentially offering fresh comedic and emotional experiences. In his interview, Murphy elaborated on the plans for Donkey’s solo film, hinting at exciting new adventures and deeper character development. This new movie will provide fans with an opportunity to see Donkey in a new light, while still delivering the humor and heart that have made him a fan favorite.

Why Donkey Is So Popular

Donkey’s popularity can be attributed to his endearing personality and his role as the ultimate comic relief. He’s annoyingly optimistic, but that’s exactly why we love him. His unwavering loyalty to Shrek, despite constant bickering, adds heart to the hilarity. Their bromance is the stuff of legend, transforming from a begrudging partnership into a deep, genuine friendship.

Moreover, Donkey’s expressive face and over-the-top antics are pure gold, making him a visual and emotional treat. His blend of humor, heart, and sheer charisma makes him the true MVP of the Shrek universe and the breakout character of the franchise. A standalone film will undoubtedly give fans more of the Donkey they adore, complete with his signature humor and infectious energy.

The Success of Animated Spin-Offs

Recent successes of animated films like Kung Fu Panda 4 and Puss in Boots: The Last Wish have reignited interest in the Shrek series. Kung Fu Panda 4 grossed $545.3 million worldwide following its release, taking the total global cume of the franchise to over $2.3 billion. Meanwhile, Puss in Boots: The Last Wish pulled in a barnstorming $485.2 million globally, which was over five times its reported production budget. Both films were critically praised, showcasing the enduring appeal of well-loved animated characters.

These successes have set the stage for the return of Shrek and the introduction of Donkey’s standalone adventure. The anticipation is high, and fans are eagerly awaiting the next installment in the Shrek saga.

What to Expect from Shrek 5

While details about Shrek 5 are still under wraps, fans can expect the return of the series’ signature humor and heartwarming storytelling. The film will likely reunite audiences with their favorite characters, including Shrek, Donkey, Princess Fiona, and others. With Eddie Murphy’s confirmation that the movie is already in production, it’s clear that the creators are dedicated to delivering a film that lives up to the high expectations set by its predecessors.

Shrek 5 promises to be a nostalgic yet fresh experience, combining the elements that made the original films so beloved with new adventures and challenges for the characters. The film’s production team is undoubtedly working hard to create a movie that will resonate with both longtime fans and new audiences.

Anticipation for Donkey’s Spin-Off

The announcement of Donkey’s standalone film has generated significant excitement among fans. This spin-off will allow for deeper exploration of Donkey’s character, providing more opportunities for humor and heartwarming moments. Given Donkey’s popularity, the film is expected to be a major hit, appealing to both children and adults alike.

Eddie Murphy’s enthusiasm for the project is a promising sign, suggesting that the film will be a labor of love for everyone involved. Fans can look forward to seeing Donkey in new and exciting situations, showcasing his unique personality and endearing qualities.

Conclusion: The Future of Shrek and Donkey

With a release date tentatively set for 2025, the countdown to the next Shrek adventure begins. Fans can expect more laughter, more heart, and more Donkey in the coming years. The Shrek franchise has always been about finding humor and joy in unexpected places, and the upcoming films are sure to continue that tradition.

Stay tuned to Collider for more updates on the future of Shrek and Donkey. In the meantime, you can stream the original Shrek movies on Netflix and relive the magic of this beloved series.

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