Inspiration for beloved ‘Shrek’ character dies at 30

The real-life model of a beloved character in the original “Shrek” film has died.

Perry, the donkey, who served as the model for the donkey character he voiced Eddie Murphy in the famous animated film died at the age of 30 from an incurable disease.

“Shrek” was a successful film that grossed over $492 million worldwide, making it the fourth highest-grossing film of 2021.

Perry died Thursday evening from laminitis, a terribly painful hoof disease.

In addition to the excruciating pain he felt from this condition, Perry had a condition on his left hind leg that made it difficult for him to use it. Therefore, he often lifted that leg, which put additional strain on his right leg.

In a statement to Palo Alto OnlinePerry’s carer Jenny Kiratli said: “For a month he just stood on three legs and held one up.”

According to her, many staff at Bol Park Donkeys, where Perry spent his final days, had tried various methods to ease his pain. However, their efforts failed to yield any positive results, prompting them to euthanize the beloved donkey.

Kiratli mentioned that Perry’s death was peaceful as he was constantly surrounded and over a dozen caregivers were with him when he died.

They shared a photo of his obituary and a statement about his life and final days.

The caption of the post read: “We are heartbroken to announce 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 his death will touch many people. Monument.” Plans will be announced soon.

Many fans commented on the post and expressed their sadness over Perry’s death. One person wrote: “We so enjoyed seeing Perry on our visits to Bol Park. Rest in peace.”

Another fan wrote: “Rest in peace Perry. My brother and I visited and picked him up every time we visited our grandparents in Palo Alto. Such a kind soul.”

A third person added: “Rest in paradise Perry. You were the sweetest and I will cherish our encounters forever.”

Kiratli said Perry was a lively and funny donkey who enjoyed playfully nibbling the butt of occasional visitors.

Perry’s playful nature and decades of entertaining visitors made him popular in the local community.

Palo Alto Mayor Greer Stone and other dignitaries visited Bol Park in June 2024 to celebrate the late Donkey’s 30th birthday.

Palo Alto also donated $10,000 in 2024 to cover Perry’s medical bills.

Kiratli also described how Perry became the face of Donkey in Shrek. She revealed that one of the film’s animators lived near Bol Park.

The animator’s wife knew he was working on a donkey character for a new film and sent him to the park’s donkey pasture. The animator then brought a team to the park to spend a few hours with Perry, who would no doubt have left a big impression on them.

Perry had his way with people and had a way of lifting their spirits and bringing them joy.

Karen Holman, a former Palo Alto mayor and longtime Bol Park donkey advocate, shared her experiences with Perry.

She told Palo Alto Online, “My particular experience with Perry is that he seemed to somehow understand when you were having a bad day.”

Holman recalled a time when Perry ran from his pasture to greet a man standing at the gate. When the donkey reached the man, he buried his head in his chest. Holman later realized that the man was one of Perry’s handlers.

In Shrek, Donkey was a talkative character who Shrek saved from Farquaad’s guards. After the rescue, they became friends and traveled to Duloc together.

Shrek and Donkey have to face and overcome several challenges. The latter proves crucial in helping his friend marry the love of his life. Princess Fiona.

“Shrek” received critical acclaim and was nominated for an Academy Award for Best Adapted Screenplay. It won the first Oscar for Best Animated Feature Film.

After the success of the first film, three sequels were released: “Shrek 2,” “Shrek the Third,” and “Shrek Forever After.”

Additionally, two spin-offs were released, “Puss in Boots” and “Puss in Boots: The Last Wish.”