Perry, the Donkey Who Inspired Donkey in Shrek, Dies at 30

Perry, the beloved donkey who served as the real-life inspiration for Eddie Murphy’s animated character Donkey in the 2001 blockbuster Shrek, has died at the age of 30. His passing was confirmed by Jenny Kiratli, lead handler of the Barron Park Donkey Project, where Perry had lived since 1997.

Donkeys typically live 25–30 years in the wild and sometimes into their 40s under human care, according to the Barron Park website. Perry’s death marks the end of a life that was celebrated not only in his local community but also in the world of animated cinema.

A Beloved Community Mascot

In addition to his connection to Shrek, Perry served as a cherished mascot for the city of Palo Alto. The city rallied around him in his later years, including funding $10,000 in medical care as his health declined.

“It is with great sadness that I am reporting the death of the incomparable Perry,” Kiratli shared in a heartfelt statement. “We are heartbroken with his passing, but recently he had been in increasing pain, suffering from a condition known as laminitis, which is not curable. This was the right time for him to say goodbye, although still too soon for us.”

Kiratli noted that Perry’s final days were filled with love and care from his handlers. “In Perry’s last weeks, handlers spent many hours at the pasture with him, petting him, cradling him, singing to him, and telling him that he was and always will be loved. We are all blessed for having known him, and we will never, ever forget him.”

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Perry’s Legacy in Shrek

Perry’s contribution to Shrek began when animators from Pacific Data Images (PDI), tasked with creating the film, visited the Barron Park Donkey Project in the late 1990s. Perry was chosen as the model for Donkey, with animators taking countless photos and studying his movements to bring the character to life.

Shrek went on to become one of the most iconic animated films of all time, earning over $492 million globally and winning the inaugural Academy Award for Best Animated Feature. Despite Perry’s vital role in the creation of Donkey, he was not credited in the film, and PDI reportedly donated only $75 to the Barron Park pasture.

Community Mourning and Memorial Plans

News of Perry’s death has prompted an outpouring of grief from the community. An Instagram post from the Barron Park Donkey Project shared a touching tribute, along with a memorial photo: “We are heartbroken to share that our beloved Barron Park donkey, Perry, passed away yesterday at the age of 30. 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 was donated to the Barron Park pasture in 1997, and over the years, he became a symbol of joy for local residents and visitors alike. His gentle demeanor and connection to Shrek made him a favorite among fans young and old.

A Farewell to a Star

Perry’s passing is a poignant reminder of the often-unseen connections between art and reality. His legacy as the inspiration behind one of cinema’s most beloved animated characters ensures that his memory will live on far beyond the pasture he called home.

For more information about Perry’s life and the Barron Park Donkey Project, visit their official website.