George Lucas Cast in Minions & Monsters Movie, Says Illumination

Meledandri didn’t share much about how Lucas will fit into the film. He could show up as an original character, or, considering Illumination has said its plot will see the Minions spending some time in Hollywood, we also wouldn’t be surprised to see him play an animated version of himself.

Lucas is best known as the mastermind behind Star Wars and has cemented himself as a Hollywood legend thanks to his work off-camera, but he’s popped in for the occasional on-screen part here and there, too. That said, it’s been years since he’s taken on an acting role. So, why did he pick up the phone when Illumination called? It’s simple: He loves Minions.

“I had this privilege of meeting George about two years ago, and what led to my meeting him is how much he loves Illumination movies, and specifically Despicable Me, and even more specifically, the Minions,” Meledandri explained. “It was such a thrill to learn that and then to share it with the team, because obviously he’s among a very small group of people who the entire studio shares a level of respect for that is just off the charts.”

Illumination got its start with Despicable Me in 2010 but has gone on to create many other animated projects like its adaptation of The Grinch The Secret Life of Pets franchise, and The Super Mario Bros. movies. The Minions have gone on to get a spotlight of their own for three movies now, and if any more are ever in the works, it sounds like Lucas will be ready.

“I saw him recently,” Meledandri added, “and he’s already talking to me about the role he wants to do next in the next Minions movie. So, it’s pretty incredible.”

Minions & Monsters premieres July 1, 2026. For more, you can read about everything Illumination had to show at CinemaCon 2026.

Photo by Mike Coppola/MG25/Getty Images for The Met Museum/Vogue.

Michael Cripe is a freelance writer with IGN. He’s best known for his work at sites like The Pitch, The Escapist, and OnlySP. Be sure to give him a follow on Bluesky (@mikecripe.bsky.social) and Twitter (@MikeCripe).