Illumination Gears Up for 'Minions 3' Following 'Despicable Me 4' Triumph

Illumination and Universal Pictures have announced 'Minions 3,' set for a June 30, 2027 release. The film's screenplay will be written by Brian Lynch while Pierre Coffin returns as director, with Illumination CEO Chris Meledandri overseeing the project. The 'Minions' franchise continues to be a box office powerhouse.

In the wake of the blockbuster success of 'Despicable Me 4,' Illumination and Universal Pictures have promptly announced their forthcoming project, 'Minions 3,' set to debut in theaters on June 30, 2027. Renowned screenwriter Brian Lynch, who previously worked on 'Minions' and 'The Secret Life of Pets,' will write the screenplay, reported The Hollywood Reporter.

The project will once again be directed by Pierre Coffin, the veteran filmmaker behind both the 'Despicable Me' and 'Minions' franchises, known for voicing the iconic Minions themselves. Illumination's founder and CEO, Chris Meledandri, along with Bill Ryan, executive producer on 'The Super Mario Bros' Movie, will oversee the film's production.

Since their inception over a decade ago, the 'Minions' have become iconic characters in the animation world, propelling Illumination to new heights. The 'Despicable Me' and 'Minions' series have collectively amassed nearly USD 5 billion at the global box office, as per The Hollywood Reporter.

Released in 2015, 'Minions' remains a top-grossing animated film, while its sequels 'Despicable Me 2' and 'Despicable Me 3' both crossed the USD 1 billion mark worldwide, showcasing the franchise's sustained popularity. 'Minions: The Rise of Gru,' the most recent installment, set records with a remarkable opening weekend during the July Fourth holiday.

This year's 'Despicable Me 4' continued the trend with a stellar USD 230 million global opening, further cementing the franchise's robust presence in the animation industry. As excitement mounts for 'Minions 3,' fans can look forward to another delightful chapter in the whimsical escapades of these beloved yellow characters. (ANI)

(With inputs from agencies.)