Fans are in tears as Perry, the real-life donkey behind Shrek’s ‘Donkey,’ dies at 30; say “2025 is off to a bad start”

In an unexpected twist of fate, Perry, the miniature donkey who inspired the beloved donkey in the Shrek films, died at the age of 30. Perry, whose full name was Pericles, was born in New York in 1994 and quickly gained local fame as animators working on the 2001 animated classic Shrek adopted him as a real-life model for the character.

Perry’s fun-loving and talkative nature made him the perfect reference for Donkey, voiced by Eddie Murphy. Apparently his quick wit and charming personality were reflected in the animated character, making him a beloved companion of Shrek (voiced by Mike Myers) in the series. Over the years, Donkey has become a cultural icon, with the character’s humor and heart providing comic relief in all four areas. Shrek films, including the last, Shrek forever (2010).

Unsurprisingly, the news of Perry’s death broke fans’ hearts and the internet is flooded with messages of love and loss. One fan expressed their disbelief, saying: “What do you mean there was a model!!? And I just found out now! And what’s more, he’s dead!! Another lamented: “This year is off to a bad start.” “RIP Perry, you were a great ass and we will miss you. Fly high,” one emotional fan shared. Another wrote: “The beloved donkey who served as Donkey’s role model in Shrek, rest easy. » The sentimentality ran deep as another fan added: “I’m going to miss you so much, thank you for giving me such an amazing childhood.” And perhaps the most touching tribute came from a fan who said: “Perry gave us one of the most memorable characters of all time. Legend forever.

Although Perry may no longer be with us, his impact on the Shrek franchise – and on the hearts of fans – is undeniable. In Donkey’s words, “I’m a believer,” and Perry will forever be remembered as the heart and soul behind one of the most beloved characters in animation history.