The 6 Wildest Secrets About Donkey In Shrek: Spin-Off Movie, Dronkey Names, And The Legacy Of Eddie Murphy

The charismatic, fast-talking, and relentlessly optimistic sidekick, Donkey, is finally getting his moment in the spotlight. As of late 2025, the *Shrek* universe is buzzing with news that the beloved character, voiced by comedy legend Eddie Murphy, will star in his own dedicated spin-off film, following the highly anticipated release of *Shrek 5*. This fresh update confirms that the franchise is expanding the "Shrekiverse" in a major way, focusing on the character who has been the heart and soul of the series for over two decades. This deep dive is your most current and comprehensive guide to everything Donkey: from his confirmed solo movie to the surprising names of his six children, and the enduring legacy of his voice actor. The production of the *Donkey* spin-off is slated to begin in September, with a projected release a few years after *Shrek 5*, which is currently in the recording stage. Get ready to learn the secrets of the magical talking donkey who taught an ogre how to love and became a global icon.

Donkey's Complete Biography and Character Profile

Donkey is more than just comic relief; he is the emotional catalyst for the entire *Shrek* franchise. His journey from a scared, magical talking animal to a devoted family man and loyal friend is one of the series' most powerful arcs.

• Full Name: Donkey (His full name remains unknown, though he is often referred to simply as Donkey).
• Voice Actor: Eddie Murphy (The role is considered one of Murphy's most iconic animated performances).
• First Appearance: *Shrek* (2001).
• Species: Anthropomorphic Miniature Donkey (His physical model was based on a real miniature donkey named Perry).
• Key Relationships: Shrek (Best Friend), Princess Fiona (Close Friend), Dragon/Elizabeth (Wife), The Dronkeys (Children).
• Defining Traits: Charismatic, talkative, needy, freedom-loving, fiercely loyal, and a master of the one-liner.
• Home: Originally lived in the Swamp with Shrek, later moved to a castle with his wife, Dragon, and their children.
• Magic Origins: While never officially confirmed, fan theories suggest he may be a boy transformed from Pleasure Island in *Pinocchio* (Lampwick) or the magical talking donkey from the fairy tale *Jack and the Magic Beans*.

The character’s defining feature is his relentless optimism and need for companionship. He forces Shrek out of his misanthropic shell, teaching him the value of friendship and unconditional acceptance. His energy and humor, delivered perfectly by Eddie Murphy, cemented his status as a cinematic icon.

The Confirmed Donkey Spin-Off Movie and Shrek 5 Update

The biggest news dominating the "Shrekiverse" is the confirmation that DreamWorks is officially expanding the franchise with a dedicated *Donkey* solo movie. This follows the massive success of the *Puss in Boots* spin-off films, particularly *Puss in Boots: The Last Wish*.

Eddie Murphy himself confirmed the project, stating that production is set to begin in September. This places the *Donkey* movie on a similar production schedule to the upcoming *Shrek 5*. Murphy revealed that he is currently recording his voice work for the main sequel, which is rumored to be released around Christmas 2026 or 2027.

The decision to give Donkey his own film is a testament to the character's enduring popularity and the critical role he plays in the franchise. The spin-off is expected to be an adventurous comedy, likely following the successful format established by the *Puss in Boots* series, giving Donkey the chance to finally headline his own story. The film will explore new corners of Far Far Away and the magical world, potentially delving deeper into Donkey's mysterious origins or his life as a father to his unusual children.

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Donkey’s Unconventional Family: The Dronkeys and Dragon’s True Name

One of the most unique and heartwarming aspects of Donkey's story is his unconventional family unit. His relationship with Dragon, the former fearsome guardian of the castle, evolves from a near-death encounter into a genuine love story built on mutual acceptance.

The relationship works because both characters were deprived of love and acceptance, finding in each other the companionship they desperately craved. The fact that Donkey is completely unfazed by Dragon's monstrous appearance is a core theme of the entire *Shrek* series: don't judge a book by its cover. The two eventually marry and have six hybrid offspring, known affectionately as the Dronkeys—a mix of a donkey and a dragon.

The Six Dronkey Children

The Dronkeys made their debut at the end of *Shrek 2*, instantly becoming fan favorites due to their bizarre and adorable appearance. They are often referred to as "little mutant babies" by their father, Donkey.

The full list of the Dronkeys' names, which are often named after food items, are:

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• Debbie (Named after Dragon’s mother, according to some sources).
• Coco
• Bananas
• Peanut
• Parfait
• Eclair

Interestingly, some sources suggest that one of the Dronkeys, Eclair, has been missing in subsequent films, leading to various fan theories about the family’s life off-screen.

The Revelation of Dragon’s Name

In a detail often missed by casual viewers, the creators of the *Shrek* franchise confirmed that Dragon actually has a name: Elizabeth. This name is subtly referenced in *Shrek 2* when Donkey is under the effects of the 'Happily Ever After' potion and mutters, "Elizabeth, I'm coming!" as he passes out.

The Enduring Legacy of the Flying, Talking Donkey

Donkey’s impact goes far beyond his role as a sidekick; he is a cultural phenomenon whose lines are instantly recognizable. His character is a masterclass in comic timing and heart, which is why the news of a spin-off has been met with such excitement from the fanbase and the greater movie industry.

His most famous quotes are LSI keywords in their own right, instantly recalling iconic moments:

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• "I'm a FLYING, talking donkey! You might have seen a housefly, maybe even a superfly, but I bet you ain't never seen a donkey fly!"
• "You definitely need some Tic-Tacs or something, 'cause your breath is stank!"
• "I've been abra-cadabra'd into a Fancy Feasting second-rate sidekick!"

The character's evolution from a simple, magical talking animal to a complex, married father and steadfast friend is the emotional anchor that grounds the fantastical world of *Shrek*. His enduring friendship with Shrek, built on constant banter and genuine love, proves that even the most mismatched pairs can form the strongest bonds.

With Eddie Murphy back in the recording booth for both *Shrek 5* and the new *Donkey* spin-off, the future of the Shrekiverse is brighter and louder than ever. The upcoming film promises to be a deep dive into the character's unique charm, finally giving the world's most famous donkey the solo adventure he has earned after years of being the ultimate wingman.