The Minions, those banana-obsessed, goggle-wearing yellow troublemakers, have been delighting (and occasionally terrorizing) audiences for over a decade. Since their debut in the original Despicable Me in 2010, these pint-sized sidekicks have grown into one of animation’s most recognizable and beloved icons. Now, fresh from the blockbuster success of Despicable Me 4 in summer 2024, Illumination is set to expand its record-breaking franchise with a wild new adventure: Minions & Monsters.
Slated for release in theaters on July 1, 2026, this riotous animated comedy promises to deliver the signature Minion mayhem on an even grander scale. Directed by Pierre Coffin — the creative force behind the first three Despicable Me films, the original Minions, and the unmistakable voice of the Minions themselves — the film reunites him with writer Brian Lynch (known for Minions and The Secret Life of Pets films). The duo crafts a story that’s equal parts absurd, hilarious, and heartfelt.
At its core, Minions & Monsters tells “the rambunctious, ridiculous and totally true story” of how the Minions conquered Hollywood. In a meta twist that plays perfectly to the characters’ chaotic energy, the Minions chase stardom, become full-fledged movie stars, only to lose it all in spectacular fashion. But their Hollywood dreams take a monstrous turn when they accidentally unleash real monsters upon the world. Faced with the global catastrophe they’ve created, the Minions must band together to save the planet from the very mayhem they unleashed.
The premise teases classic monster-movie tropes blended with Illumination’s irreverent humor — think Hollywood glamour gone hilariously wrong, complete with all-new characters joining the fray. The tagline from early promotions sums it up perfectly: “Hollywood has a monster problem.”
Behind the scenes, the film boasts a powerhouse team. Chris Meledandri, Illumination’s Academy Award-nominated founder and CEO, produces alongside Bill Ryan (executive producer on The Super Mario Bros. Movie). Brian Lynch also serves as executive producer, ensuring continuity with the franchise’s winning formula.
The Despicable Me and Minions universe has proven its staying power, amassing over $5.6 billion in global box office across its entries — making it the biggest animated franchise in history. Despicable Me 4 alone continued the momentum, grossing nearly $973 million worldwide, cementing the Minions’ status as enduring pop-culture phenomena beloved by fans of all ages.
With Pierre Coffin returning to direct and voice the Minions, Minions & Monsters looks poised to deliver more of the joyful, over-the-top comedy that has defined the series. As the yellow horde heads to the big screen once again, expect plenty of slapstick, heart, and — of course — bananas.
Mark your calendars for July 1, 2026: the Minions are coming back, and this time, they’re bringing monsters with them. Get ready for the biggest, most chaotic chapter yet in the world’s most iconic animated franchise.
