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Donkey that inspired Eddie Murphy’s character in Shrek dies at the age of 30 – as handlers mourn the passing of ‘an icon’

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Donkey that inspired Eddie Murphy's character in Shrek dies at the age of 30 - as handlers mourn the passing of 'an icon'

The donkey that inspired Eddie Murphy’s iconic character in Shrek has died at the age of 30. 

For nearly three decades, the beloved miniature donkey named Perry captivated visitors at Bol Park situated in Palo Alto, northwestern California. Tragically, Perry had to be put to sleep on Thursday.

As a devoted follower, I’ve been tending to a cherished barnyard companion who’s been battling against the torment of laminitis – an agonizing hoof ailment that’s caused him immense pain. Moreover, he struggles with an issue in his left hind leg, making it difficult for him to maintain his footing, a challenge I’ve been helping him navigate daily.

His caretakers attempted various approaches to alleviate his discomfort, but as time went on, it became clear that his health wasn’t getting better.

Jenny Kiratli, who looks after the donkey, revealed to Palo Alto Online that, surprisingly, the donkey has a unique link to one of Hollywood’s beloved film series – Shrek – outside his hometown Perry.

One of the animators, it seems, resided close to Bol Park and was advised by his spouse to head over to the donkey enclosure to gather details, which would aid in developing the character portrayed by Eddie Murphy.

Donkey that inspired Eddie Murphy's character in Shrek dies at the age of 30 - as handlers mourn the passing of 'an icon'

Donkey that inspired Eddie Murphy's character in Shrek dies at the age of 30 - as handlers mourn the passing of 'an icon'
Donkey that inspired Eddie Murphy's character in Shrek dies at the age of 30 - as handlers mourn the passing of 'an icon'

The same man then returned with a group of fellow animators who spent hours with Perry.

According to The Sun, it’s evident that Perry has a significant impact on Donkey, as Ms. Kiralti pointed out they often mimic similar behaviors.

Despite playing a crucial part in the development of a globally recognized animated character, it’s said that Perry was compensated with only $74 for the movie – a project that also made history by being the first to win an Academy Award for Best Animated Feature.

Ms Kiratli described his death as ‘the end of the era’ and ‘the loss of an icon’.

During Perry’s final days, they devoted numerous hours in the pasture, stroking him, holding him close, crooning to him, and assuring him of eternal love.

‘We are all blessed for having known him and we will never, ever forget him.’ 

Perry moved to Bol Park in 1997 where he lived with two other donkeys, April and Buddy. 

Donkey that inspired Eddie Murphy's character in Shrek dies at the age of 30 - as handlers mourn the passing of 'an icon'
Donkey that inspired Eddie Murphy's character in Shrek dies at the age of 30 - as handlers mourn the passing of 'an icon'

Ms Kiratli said Perry was feisty and funny which is part of what made him so endearing to visitors.

The local fame of the animal was solidified when Greer Stone, the mayor of the city, attended and joined many locals who gathered at the park to celebrate its 30th birthday in June.

Palo Alto also contributed $10,000 last year towards his medical costs.

Generally, donkeys can live anywhere from 25 to 30 years, but with proper care, they can sometimes even reach their 40s.

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2025-01-05 13:03

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