“Despicable Me 3” and “How the Grinch Stole Christmas” Set for 2017

Universal Pictures recently announced release dates for three upcoming films from Despicable Me producer Illumination Entertainment. The first film, untitled so far, is due out on December 21, 2016 and described as an “original animated comedy event about courage, competition and carrying a tune.” It will be written and directed by music video director-turned-film director Garth Jennings (Son of Rambow, The Hitchhiker’s Guide to the Galaxy) and produced by Chris Meledandri and Janet Healy.

Gru, Lucy, their precocious daughters and, of course, the Minions will return on June 30, 2017 for Despicable Me 3 , which is not to be confused with the Minion spinoff due out on July 10, 2015. And following the success of 2012 adaptation of The Lorax, Illumination will produce a new adaptation of Dr. Seuss’ How the Grinch Stole Christmas! It is being helmed by commercial animation director Pete Candeland (Gorillaz) and produced by Meledandri and Healy, with Michael LeSieur (You, Me and Dupree) providing the script, and Audrey Geisel, (Dr. Seuss’ widow) serving as executive producer. The release date has been set for November 17, 2017.