Pericles “Perry” the donkey, who was the inspiration to the iconic cartoon character “Donkey” from the Shrek movies, has died at the age of 30. 

The miniature donkey - who modelled for the animators of the award-winning movie in 2001 - was euthanised on 2 January following a long battle against various illnesses, according to the Barron Park Donkey Project in Palo Alto, California. 

Alongside Eddie Murphy’s voice, Perry also played a great role in bringing the infamous ‘sidekick’ character to life throughout the entire franchise. 

Perry - immortalised through ‘Donkey’ - is greatly loved and mourned by fans across the globe.