2015's Minions was a massive box-office success, and it didn't take long for a sequel to be green-lit by Illumination and Universal. Minions: The Rise of Gru follows on from the events of the first movie, documenting Gru's early steps on the journey to becoming an evil mastermind. The generally positive reception enjoyed by Minions 2, along with positive box office numbers, suggests that the wider Despicable Me series still has appeal. Coupled with some key plot developments, Minions: The Rise of Gru set the foundations for Minions 3, and the threequel is on the way.

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The Latest News About Minions 3

The Release Date Is Moved

Months after the sequel was put on the schedule, the latest news confirms that the release date for Minions 3 has been moved. Originally slated to arrive on June 30, 2027, the movie has been moved up an entire year and will now premiere on July 1, 2026. Minions 3 will take over the slot previously held by Shrek 5, with the latter moving to December 2026. No reason has been given for the change, but shifting a release date forward by an entire year likely means that Universal wants the Despicable Me franchise installment sooner rather than later.

The Minions 3 Release Date

The Minions Return In 2026

In an unusual move, Illumination and Universal simultaneously revealed that Minions 3 was in the works and that it has a place on the schedule. Minions 3 was originally set to debut on June 30, 2027, a little less than three years after the movie was initially announced. However, Universal made a few changes in early 2025, including shifting Minions 3 up by an entire year. Now the little yellow henchmen will return on July 1, 2026, bumping Shrek 5 back to December of the same year. This drastic shift is nearly unprecedented considering the protracted timeline for making an animated film.

Minions 3 Cast Details

Will Any Familiar Characters Return?

Without definite plot details, it's difficult to say for certain who will return for Minions 3. However, the story does allow for some key figures to make a comeback. In addition to Steve Carell as young Gru, and Pierre Coffin – who has voiced the Minions since their inception – there is a possible return for Alan Arkin's Wild Knuckles, after he and Gru rode off into the sunset together. Other returnees could include the likes of Will Arnett and Steve Coogan, who have made cameos in several movies and reprised their role in Minions: The Rise of Gru.

Minions 3 Story Details

What Does Rise Of Gru Set Up?

Nothing is known about Minions 3's story, but it could feature another adventure with Gru and Wild Knuckles. Another potential angle is one that could directly tie the prequel series to the original Despicable Me movies. In the Minions: The Rise of Gru's mid-credits scene, Gru is shown an airship by Dr. Nefario that resembles the one that appears later in the timeline. With that in mind, it's possible that Minions 3 could take place closer to the events of 2010's Despicable Me, thus bringing the franchise full-circle.