‘Shrek’ model for Donkey character, Perry, dies at 30 in California

Remembering Perry: The Beloved Donkey Who Inspired Shrek

The world is mourning the loss of Perry, the miniature donkey who served as the inspiration for one of cinema’s most beloved characters – Donkey from the “Shrek” franchise. Perry, affectionately nicknamed “Shrek’s Donkey,” passed away at the age of 30 after battling health issues.

A Life Full of Laughter and Love

Perry was more than just a movie inspiration; he was a cherished member of the community in Palo Alto,California. For years, Perry resided at the Bay Area Donkey Sanctuary where he charmed visitors with his playful personality and infectious charm. “He brought so much joy to everyone who met him,” the sanctuary shared in a heartfelt tribute. “Perry’s legacy of laughter and love will forever be remembered.”

The Real Donkey Behind Shrek: Meet Perry the Miniature Donkey

Perry’s unique appearance and endearing personality captured the hearts of DreamWorks animators, who used him as the model for Donkey in the “Shrek” films. Perry’s mischievous grin and expressive eyes brought the animated character to life, making him an instant fan favorite.

Bringing Donkey to Life

The filmmakers frequently visited Perry at the sanctuary,studying his movements and mannerisms.”Perry was truly a special donkey,” recalled a member of the “Shrek” animation team. “He had such a unique personality that we knew he was the perfect inspiration for Donkey.”

Perry’s Legacy Lives On

Perry’s passing is a loss felt by many. His memory will live on through the beloved character he inspired and the countless lives he touched with his warmth and charisma. The Bay Area Donkey Sanctuary plans to establish a memorial in Perry’s honor, ensuring that his legacy continues to bring smiles to faces for generations to come.

Honoring a Beloved Donkey

“Perry’s playful spirit will be deeply missed,” saeid the sanctuary staff. “He was a true ambassador for donkeys everywhere, reminding us of the special bond that can exist between humans and animals. We are grateful for the joy he brought to our lives and to the countless people who visited him.”

Beloved “Shrek” Donkey Inspiration Passes Away at Bay Area Sanctuary

The San Francisco Bay Area is mourning the loss of Perry, a beloved donkey who charmed visitors at Barron Park in Palo Alto, California. Perry wasn’t just any ordinary donkey; he was the real-life inspiration for the iconic character Donkey in the beloved animated film “Shrek.”

The Donkey Who Inspired a Legend

Perry’s friendly demeanor and playful antics won the hearts of both staff and visitors. His unique personality and charming quirks caught the eye of DreamWorks animators, who visited him at Barron Park to study his movements and expressions. This firsthand observation helped bring the unforgettable character of Donkey to life on the big screen.

A Legacy of Laughter and Love

Perry’s impact extended far beyond his role as a model. He brought immeasurable joy to everyone he met, leaving a lasting impression on the community. Sadly, Perry was recently euthanized due to complications from several health conditions, including Cushing’s disease and laminitis.

Honoring Perry’s Memory

While Perry’s physical presence is gone, his legacy of laughter and love will continue to inspire. He will forever be remembered as the real-life donkey who brought the beloved character Donkey to life,leaving an enduring mark on both the animation world and the hearts of those who knew him.

Adorable Pygmy Hippo Captures HeartsGlobally

At the Metro Richmond Zoo, a new star has arrived, capturing the hearts of people around the world. Her name is Poppy, an adorable pygmy hippopotamus, and her birth is a cause for party, contributing to the zoo’s crucial conservation efforts for this endangered species.

A Global Sensation

Poppy’s story,captured in a heartwarming video,has quickly become a viral sensation. Viewers are charmed by her playful antics and cuddly appearance,demonstrating the widespread appeal of these gentle giants. Fans from 165 countries voted in a poll to choose her name, highlighting her international stardom.

“Born to parents Iris and Corwin, Poppy the pygmy hippo is part of Metro Richmond Zoo’s conservation initiative, and her name was chosen by fans from 165 countries,” said the zoo.

A Luminous Future for Poppy

The Metro Richmond Zoo continues to share updates on Poppy’s progress, keeping her growing fan base engaged and informed. Her accomplished birth offers hope for the future of these unique animals.

The Real-Life Inspiration Behind “Shrek’s” Donkey Passes Away at 30

The Barron Park Donkey Project is mourning the loss of Perry, the charming miniature donkey who served as the inspiration for Eddie Murphy’s unforgettable character Donkey in the “Shrek” franchise. Perry, whose full name was Pericles, passed away on January 2nd at the age of 30 after a period of declining health.

A Life Filled with laughter and Love

Born in New York in 1994, Perry brought joy to countless visitors and volunteers during his long residency at Barron Park in Palo Alto, California. “Perry was a very special animal who was funny, feisty, and social,” fondly reminisced Jenny Kiratli, lead handler with the Barron Park Donkey Project. “Even towards the end of his life, when he was heavily medicated and in pain, Perry remained in good spirits.”

A Legacy of Friendship

Perry leaves behind two donkey companions at barron park, April and Buddy, who always shared a close bond. “Sence Perry’s death,” Kiratli noted, “april and Buddy have been spending even more time together.”

Honoring a Beloved donkey

The Barron Park Donkey project plans to hold a memorial service for Perry in the coming months to celebrate his life and legacy.

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From Palo alto to the Big Screen: The Story of Perry, the Real Donkey Behind “shrek”

Perry, a beloved miniature donkey from the Barron Park Donkey project in Palo Alto, California, passed away on January 2nd, 2025, at the age of 30. While Perry might not have been a household name,he holds a special place in pop culture history – he served as the real-life model for the iconic character Donkey in DreamWorks Animation’s “Shrek.”

Bringing Donkey to Life

“Perry was a very special animal who was funny, feisty, and social,” recalled Jenny Kiratli, lead handler with the Barron Park Donkey Project. “Even towards the end of his life, when he was heavily medicated and in pain, Perry remained in good spirits.” This vibrant personality likely shone through when Perry met the “Shrek” animators, inspiring the lovable, fast-witted Donkey that audiences fell in love with.

From Barron Park to the big Screen: The Story of “Shrek’s” Donkey

Perry, a charming miniature donkey, spent his days bringing smiles to visitors at Barron Park in Palo Alto, California. Little did he know, he was destined for even greater fame. Perry served as the inspiration for one of animation’s most beloved characters: Donkey in the blockbuster film “Shrek.”

Rex Grignon, former head of character animation at DreamWorks Animation and supervising animator for Donkey in “Shrek,” explained the vital role Perry played in bringing the character to life. While Donkey’s personality was already established, the animators needed a real-life model to capture his physicality.

A Donkey’s Day at the Studio

Fortuitously, Grignon lived near the “Shrek” studio and stumbled upon Perry and a group of donkeys from the Barron Park Donkey Project during a walk. he invited a team of DreamWorks animators to spend an afternoon sketching and filming Perry, carefully observing his natural movements and postures.

“Studying Perry was crucial for the team because it was the first time they had animated a quadruped,” Grignon said. This firsthand observation was essential, as “Shrek” marked the first time DreamWorks animators were tackling a four-legged character.

“Perry’s legacy lives on through the beloved Donkey, a character who brought laughter and joy to audiences worldwide. His contribution to one of animation’s most iconic characters is a testament to the unexpected ways in which animals can influence art and entertainment.

“Shrek’s” Donkey, Perry, Laid to Rest After Health Battles

Perry, the beloved miniature donkey who served as the inspiration for the iconic “Shrek” character, sadly passed away on january 2, 2025, at the ripe old age of 30. Perry continued to bring joy to countless visitors throughout his life at Barron Park in Palo Alto, California.

A Challenging Decision

Perry’s veterinarian, Dr. Kiratli, explained that the decision to euthanize Perry was incredibly difficult but ultimately necessary due to his declining health.”perry was suffering from several serious conditions,” Dr. Kiratli shared, detailing the donkey’s struggles.

Perry’s Health Challenges

Details about Perry’s specific health conditions were not released by his caretakers at Barron Park.

palo Alto’s Beloved donkey, Perry, Dies at 30

Palo Alto is mourning the loss of Perry, a beloved Jerusalem miniature donkey who charmed visitors for decades at the Barron Park Donkey Project. The cherished donkey, known for his gentle nature and playful spirit, passed away on January 2, 2025, at the ripe old age of 30.

A Life Full of Joy at Barron Park

For years, perry brought smiles to the faces of countless parkgoers, becoming a local icon. his presence in the park’s pasture was a heartwarming constant, delighting children and adults alike.He was known for his charming personality and gentle disposition, making him a favorite among visitors.

Perry’s Iconic Legacy

Perry’s fame extended far beyond the park’s boundaries. The beloved donkey was the inspiration for the iconic Donkey character in the animated blockbuster “Shrek.” this connection brought Perry worldwide recognition and cemented his place in pop culture history.

A Life Cut Short by Illness

In recent years, Perry faced a number of health challenges, including pituitary pars intermedia dysfunction (PPID), also known as Cushing’s disease. This hormonal disorder, explained by Michigan State University’s Veterinary Diagnostic Laboratory, affected Perry’s well-being. He also suffered from nerve impingement,leading to laminitis,a painful inflammatory condition affecting the hooves.

Remembering Perry

Perry’s passing marks the end of an era for the Barron Park Donkey Project and the Palo Alto community. He will be deeply missed, but his memory will forever be cherished.

Barron Park Donkeys: A Palo Alto Treasure

nestled in a serene pasture along a Palo Alto bike path, a unique group of animal ambassadors resides: the Barron Park Donkeys. These gentle creatures have charmed locals and visitors alike,becoming beloved icons of the community.

From humble Beginnings to Community Treasure

The Barron Park Donkey Project’s story began with a donkey named Mickey and the selfless actions of a few compassionate neighbors. When Mickey’s owner, Josina, fell ill, five neighbors stepped in to ensure his well-being. This act of kindness blossomed into a heartwarming community effort, leading to the project’s establishment.

A Haven for Donkeys

Today, the Barron Park Donkey Project, a donor-funded programme of the Palo Alto Humane Society, provides a sanctuary for donkeys in need. Over three dozen volunteers generously donate their time and energy to ensure the donkeys receive exceptional care. Each donkey enjoys three nutritious meals daily and invigorating walks, promoting both physical and emotional well-being.

Sundays in the Park: A Special Tradition

A highlight of each week is Sunday’s “donkey walks” through Barron Park. Handlers guide the donkeys through the park, delighting onlookers with their gentle nature and playful antics. These walks offer a unique opportunity for the community to connect with these remarkable animals.

Remembering Perry: A Beloved Donkey

In early January 2025, the Palo Alto community mourned the loss of Perry, a beloved 30-year-old Jerusalem miniature donkey. Perry resided at the Barron Park Donkey Project’s pasture with his companions, April and Buddy.

Perry’s health declined in his final weeks. According to Sheri Kiratli, a volunteer with the project, he relied on three legs to walk and eventually lost the ability to walk altogether.Kiratli shared a poignant anecdote: “At one point, the other two donkeys (april and buddy) laid down right where he was standing and the handler felt they were saying, ‘C’mon, just like this, lay down,'”

Perry’s passing is a loss for the Palo Alto community, who cherished visiting him and his fellow donkeys at the park. The Barron Park Donkey Project will continue its vital work, ensuring that Perry’s legacy lives on through the care and protection of the remaining donkeys.

A Rich History

The donkeys at Barron Park have a long and storied history, dating back to the 1950s. Cornelius and Josina Bol first introduced donkeys to the area, and what is now the Barron Park Donkey Project’s pasture became their home.By the 1990s, only a single donkey remained, underscoring the importance of the project’s mission to preserve this unique heritage.

Remembering Perry: The Donkey Who Inspired a Beloved Movie Character

Perry,the donkey who served as the inspiration for the lovable character Donkey in the animated film Shrek,has passed away at the age of 23. Perry spent his final days surrounded by the love and care of the dedicated volunteers and staff at the Barron Park Donkey Project in Palo Alto, California. His passing was met with an outpouring of grief from the community, highlighting his enduring impact as a symbol of joy and resilience.

More Than Just Inspiration

Perry’s legacy extends far beyond his connection to the silver screen. He was a beloved fixture in the Barron Park community, warmly welcoming visitors with his gentle demeanor and playful antics. His presence served as a tangible link to nature and history, reminding everyone of life’s simple pleasures.

The Barron Park Donkey Project, a fully volunteer-run and donation-supported institution, honored Perry’s memory, emphasizing his crucial role in educating the public about donkeys and their care.A spokesperson for the project stated,”Perry was more than just a donkey; he was a teacher,a freind,and a source of happiness for so many. His legacy will live on in the hearts of everyone who had the privilege of knowing him.”

A Lasting Tribute

To honor Perry’s unusual life and contributions, the Barron Park donkey Project has announced plans to establish a memorial in his name. This memorial will serve as a lasting tribute to Perry, ensuring that future generations can learn about his remarkable story and the importance of preserving the heritage of donkeys within the community.

Perry’s life serves as a powerful reminder of the profound connections that exist between humans and animals, and how these bonds can inspire creativity, compassion, and joy. while the world continues to cherish the character of Donkey in Shrek, Perry’s legacy will forever stand as a testament to the power of inspiration and the enduring impact of one small donkey with an enormous heart.

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How did Perry the miniature donkey’s natural charm and physicality influence the creation of the animated character Donkey in the Shrek franchise?

Perry, the beloved miniature donkey who inspired the iconic Donkey character in the Shrek franchise, passed away on January 2, 2025, at the age of 30.His death marked the end of an era for both the Barron Park Donkey Project in Palo Alto, California, and the countless fans who adored him for his gentle nature and his connection to one of animation’s most memorable characters.

Perry’s Legacy: From Barron Park to Hollywood

Perry’s journey from a local favorite to a global icon began when Rex Grignon, a supervising animator for Shrek at DreamWorks Animation, discovered him during a walk near the studio. Grignon and his team of animators spent hours studying Perry’s movements, expressions, and posture to bring the character of Donkey to life.This was a meaningful challenge, as Shrek was the first time DreamWorks animators had tackled a quadrupedal character. perry’s natural charm and physicality became the foundation for donkey’s animated persona, which went on to captivate audiences worldwide.

A Life of Joy and Challenges

Perry spent his life at Barron Park, where he became a beloved figure in the community.Visitors of all ages were drawn to his playful spirit and gentle demeanor. However,in his later years,Perry faced significant health challenges,including pituitary pars intermedia dysfunction (PPID),also known as Cushing’s disease,and laminitis,a painful hoof condition.These ailments made it increasingly difficult for him to walk, and he eventually relied on three legs before losing mobility altogether.

Despite his struggles, Perry remained a symbol of resilience and joy. his caretakers and volunteers at the Barron Park Donkey Project worked tirelessly to ensure his comfort, but the decision to euthanize him was made to prevent further suffering. His passing left a void in the hearts of those who knew him, but his legacy lives on through the laughter and happiness he brought to so many.

The Barron Park Donkey project: A Community Treasure

The Barron Park Donkey Project, a donor-funded initiative of the Palo Alto Humane society, has long been a sanctuary for donkeys in need. The project began with a single donkey named Mickey and grew into a community effort supported by dozens of volunteers.Today, it provides a safe haven for donkeys like Perry, offering them nutritious meals, regular walks, and a loving environment.

One of the project’s most cherished traditions is the weekly “donkey walks,” where handlers guide the donkeys through Barron Park, delighting visitors and fostering a connection between the animals and the community. Perry was a star of these walks, and his absence will be deeply felt.

Remembering Perry

Perry’s impact extended far beyond Palo Alto. As the inspiration for Donkey in Shrek, he became a part of pop culture history, bringing joy to millions through his animated counterpart. His story is a testament to the profound ways animals can touch our lives, inspire art, and bring communities together.

As the Barron Park Donkey Project and the Palo Alto community mourn his loss, thay also celebrate the legacy of a donkey who brought smiles to so many. Perry’s memory will forever be cherished, not only as a local treasure but also as a beloved figure who bridged the gap between reality and animation, leaving an indelible mark on the world.