The Despicable Me franchise has taken over Netflix, captivating audiences as they eagerly await the release of Despicable Me 4. First introduced in 2010, Despicable Me follows the journey of the supervillain-turned-doting father figure, Gru, whose heart softens when he takes in three young girls. Since its inception, the Despicable Me franchise has gained incredible popularity, and the anticipation for Despicable Me 4, set to be released on July 5, continues to grow.
In a remarkable feat, several films from the Despicable Me franchise have made their way onto Netflix's global top 10 list. During the week of February 5 to February 11, Despicable Me 3 dominated the charts, claiming the number one spot with a staggering 15.9 million views. Joining the chart-topping film were its predecessors - Minions at number four with 9.6 million views, Despicable Me 2 at number five with 9.1 million views, and Despicable Me at number six with 7.3 million views.
This notable achievement means that almost all the released films from the Despicable Me franchise, except for Minions: The Rise of Gru, have found themselves on Netflix's top 10 list. Impressively, all but Despicable Me 3 have repeatedly made these coveted rankings for multiple weeks. Despicable Me 2, in particular, has remained on the list for an impressive 12 consecutive weeks. The fact that Despicable Me presently holds the top spot on Netflix indicates an enthusiastic audience eager for more from the franchise.
This positive reception bodes well for the upcoming release of Despicable Me 4. While Minions: The Rise of Gru hit the big screen in 2022, fans have been eagerly waiting for the main storyline continuation since Despicable Me 3 debuted in 2017. A seven-year wait between films can be both advantageous and challenging for Despicable Me 4.
However, the franchise benefits from the enormous success of Minions: The Rise of Gru. Not only did the film amass a whopping $940.2 million at the box office, but it also sparked numerous online trends, enhancing the viewing experience. Audiences even dressed up in formal wear to watch the movie, contributing to its viral popularity. With the recent success of Minions: The Rise of Gru and the surge in viewership on Netflix, Despicable Me 4 is well-positioned to become a monumental summer hit in 2024.
Returning alongside the lovable Gru in Despicable Me 4 is his wife, Lucy, portrayed once again by Kristin Wiig. The film also introduces their son, adding more depth and excitement to the beloved characters' lives.
The Despicable Me franchise's takeover on Netflix is a testament to its enduring appeal and the anticipation behind Despicable Me 4. With viewers eagerly consuming past films and eagerly awaiting the new installment, it is clear that the world of Gru will continue to captivate audiences for years to come. As we count down the days until the release of Despicable Me 4, let's enjoy the comedic and heartwarming journey that this franchise has taken us on so far.
