Animal who inspired Eddie Murphy’s Donkey in Shrek passes away at 30 years old

Perry, the miniature donkey who provided the visual inspiration for Eddie Murphy’s character in 2001’s Shrek, has died.

Barron Park Donkeys announced the passing of the beloved animal on January 3, confirming the cause to be due to a battle with a type of hoof disease, laminitis.

Perry was 30.

Perry was born in June of 1994, he died on January 2, 2025.

“We are heartbroken to share that our beloved Barron Park donkey, Perry, passed away yesterday at the age of 30,” Barron Park Donkeys began in a statement.

“He was a beloved member of our community and we know many people will be touched by his passing. Memorial plans will be announced soon.”

“Perry came to the Barron Park donkeys in 1997 as a young and feisty 3-year-old companion to Miner Forty-Niner.”

“Throughout his long life here, Perry captured the hearts of the Barron Park community, and far beyond, with his beautiful soulful eyes, his sweet and gentle disposition, his amiable stroll to the pasture gate to greet his visitors, and of course his contribution to the movie Shrek-as the motion model for [Donkey].”

The statement continues: “Perry delighted the neighbourhood over the years with his frequent appearances at Barron Park community events and his daily walks along the bicycle path, most recently with his companions Buddy and April.”

“We are all filled with sadness at his passing,” the park added.

“In his last weeks he was in pain and suffering increasingly from a condition known as laminitis which is not curable.”

In Perry’s last weeks, all of the handlers spent many hours at the pasture with him, petting him, singing to him, and telling him that he was and always will be loved.”

“We will miss you Perry.”

“You were a special donkey.”

“We were lucky to have known you and we will never forget you.”