'Despicable Me' Director Chris Renaud Rejects Idea of Live-Action Minions Movie

Chris Renaud, director of 'Despicable Me', has dismissed the idea of a live-action Minions movie, emphasizing that the animated format is essential to the franchise's identity. He is currently focused on the animated series, with Minions 3 set for release in 2027, directed by Pierre Coffin.

Chris Renaud, the director behind the hugely successful 'Despicable Me' series, has dismissed the idea of a live-action Minions movie. In an interview with The Hollywood Reporter, Renaud expressed strong reservations, stating, "God, I hope not. That's my answer."

Renaud elaborated, noting that the animated nature of the franchise is crucial to its identity. He cited examples like locking a minion in a vending machine and the cartoonish explosions as elements that wouldn't translate well to live-action. "These are really cartoon ideas, like what would have been in a Bugs Bunny cartoon," he explained.

Renaud directed the first two 'Despicable Me' films and returned for the fourth installment. He has also produced the Minions spin-offs. The franchise recently surpassed $5 billion in global ticket sales. Illumination and Universal announced plans for Minions 3, scheduled for release in June 2027, directed by Pierre Coffin.