Perry the Donkey's Passing

In a heartfelt revelation, it has been announced that Perry, the memorable donkey who served as the real-life model for Eddie Murphy's Donkey in the iconic 2001 animated film Shrek, has passed away at the age of 30. Known for his unique personality, Perry became a cherished member of the Barron Park community in Palo Alto, California, where he had lived since 1997.

Community's Response

Jenny Kiratli, the lead handler of the Barron Park Donkey Project, shared the somber news with the community, noting that Perry had recently been suffering from laminitis, a painful and untreatable condition that ultimately led to his passing. In her emotional statement, Kiratli expressed the deep loss felt by all who knew Perry, stating, “We are heartbroken with his passing. In Perry's last weeks, we surrounded him with love, spending countless hours petting, singing, and reassuring him of the affection he inspired in our hearts.”

Perry's Legacy

Perry's legacy extends beyond just his time as a stand-in for the animated character; he served as a beloved city mascot and became a central figure in the lives of local residents. As news of his passing broke, many fans of the film and supporters of the donkey project shared their sorrow online, with plans for a memorial gathering to commemorate Perry's life and contributions to the community expected to be announced shortly.

Impact of Shrek

Though the film Shrek went on to become a cultural sensation, grossing over $492 million worldwide and winning the first-ever Academy Award for Best Animated Feature, Perry's role in the film was not formally recognized, and the financial contribution from the animation studio was minimal at just $75. Nevertheless, his influence on the beloved character will forever be remembered by fans of the franchise.

A Community Remembers

Perry's story is a poignant reminder of the impact animals can have on our lives, serving as both friends and inspirations. As memorial plans are developed, the community prepares to honor a donkey who brought joy, laughter, and an unyielding spirit to all who encountered him.