By: Renae Richardson

Shrek is not just returning; it is expanding its world in a way fans have been asking for. This time, the spotlight belongs to Donkey.

Once Upon a Swamp: A Disruption

In late spring 2001, DreamWorks delivered a fairytale that refused to play by the rules. Shrek introduced audiences to an ogre who preferred isolation over connection, fully at home in the quiet of his swamp. That peace was quickly interrupted by Donkey, whose persistence pulled Shrek into an unexpected quest to rescue a princess.

What followed was more than a comedic twist on familiar tropes. It became a story about identity, acceptance, and love without limits. The film reshaped the idea of “happily ever after,” showing that connection does not come in one form. Even Donkey found his match in Dragon, proving that love can exist in the most unexpected places.

The Comic Engine in The Swamp

Shrek (Donkey). Dreamworks Entertainment/Youtube (Courtesy of Looper)

Shrek may have been the title character, but Donkey was the rhythm of the film. His sharp humor and nonstop commentary gave the story its momentum. Eddie Murphy’s voice work was key, blending comedic precision with an undercurrent of sincerity that made Donkey more than just comic relief.

As the franchise expanded through sequels and the successful Puss in Boots spinoff, the question lingered. When would Donkey lead his own story? Murphy himself kept the idea alive, but for years it remained more wish than reality.

From Whisper to Word

Now, the speculation has taken shape. A donkey-centered film is officially set for summer 2028. As Blexmedia notes,

“The movie will serve as a prequel, tracing how a donkey became Donkey. Murphy returns to voice the role he has played since the original Shrek in 2001. Charlie Bean, who previously directed The Lego Batman Movie and the live-action Lady and the Tramp, will direct, with Matt Flynn co-directing.”

The groundwork had been hinted at before. Per Blexmedia,

“During the press tour for Beverly Hills Cop: Axel Foley, he told ScreenRant that Donkey would get ‘his own little story with his dragon wife and his kids that are half-dragon and half-donkeys,’ adding that ‘they’ve written this funny story.’”

At the time, it sounded like another promising idea. Now, it is a confirmed addition to the franchise’s future.

Ever Ever After

The announcement arrives as anticipation builds for Shrek 5, signaling that this world is far from finished. Expanding the story through Donkey is not just a long-overdue move; it is a natural extension of what has always made the franchise resonate.

While 2028 may feel distant, the return to the swamp is much closer. June 30, 2027, marks the arrival of Shrek 5, bringing audiences back into a world that continues to evolve without losing its core.

And if there is one thing Shrek has always understood, it is this: sometimes the character who talks the most ends up having the most to say.

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