Ken Daurio

Ken Daurio

Known For:Writing

Biography

Ken Daurio, a talented screenwriter and producer, has made significant contributions to the world of animated films. With a career spanning over two decades, Daurio has been a key figure in the success of beloved movies such as the "Despicable Me" franchise and "The Secret Life of Pets." His ability to craft engaging storylines and witty dialogue has captivated audiences of all ages.

Born and raised in the United States, Daurio discovered his passion for storytelling at a young age. His creative spark led him to pursue a career in the entertainment industry, where he quickly made a name for himself as a versatile writer with a knack for humor and heart. Collaborating closely with his longtime writing partner, Cinco Paul, Daurio has created some of the most memorable animated films of recent years.

One of Daurio's most notable achievements is his work on the "Despicable Me" series, which has become a global phenomenon. The lovable characters, clever humor, and heartfelt moments in these films have resonated with audiences worldwide, earning Daurio and Paul widespread acclaim. Their ability to balance comedy with genuine emotion has set a high standard for animated storytelling.

In addition to his success with the "Despicable Me" franchise, Daurio has also worked on other hit films such as "Dr. Seuss' The Lorax" and "Hop." His collaborations with Illumination Entertainment have helped solidify his reputation as a top-tier writer in the animation industry. Daurio's scripts are known for their sharp wit, imaginative concepts, and universal themes that appeal to viewers of all backgrounds.

Beyond his writing talents, Daurio is also a respected producer who plays a key role in bringing animated projects to life. His creative vision and attention to detail have been instrumental in shaping the visual and narrative elements of the films he works on. Daurio's dedication to his craft and commitment to storytelling excellence have earned him the respect of his peers and industry professionals alike.

As a storyteller, Daurio has a unique ability to blend humor and heart in a way that resonates with audiences of all ages. His scripts are filled with witty one-liners, endearing characters, and poignant moments that leave a lasting impact on viewers. Daurio's work reflects his passion for storytelling and his belief in the power of cinema to entertain, inspire, and connect people from all walks of life.

In an industry that is constantly evolving, Daurio continues to push the boundaries of animated storytelling with each new project he takes on. His willingness to explore different genres, themes, and storytelling techniques sets him apart as a versatile and innovative writer in the world of animation. Whether he's crafting a comedy, a drama, or a family-friendly adventure, Daurio's creative voice shines through in every script he writes.

With a string of box office hits and critical successes to his name, Ken Daurio has established himself as a leading figure in the world of animated filmmaking. His contributions to the medium have entertained and inspired audiences around the globe, earning him a well-deserved reputation as a master storyteller. As he continues to collaborate on new projects and push the boundaries of animated storytelling, Daurio's influence on the industry is sure to endure for years to come.

Images

Ken Daurio

Filmography

Acting

Despicable Me 4

Despicable Me 4

Additional Voices (voice)

2024

Gru and Lucy and their girls—Margo, Edith and Agnes—welcome a new member to the Gru family, Gru Jr., who is intent on tormenting his dad. Gru also faces a new nemesis in Maxime Le Mal and his femme fatale girlfriend Valentina, forcing the family to go on the run.
Despicable Me

Despicable Me

Egyptian Guard (voice)

2010

Villainous Gru lives up to his reputation as a despicable, deplorable and downright unlikable guy when he hatches a plan to steal the moon from the sky. But he has a tough time staying on task after three orphans land in his care.
Despicable Me 3

Despicable Me 3

Celebrity (voice)

2017

Gru and his wife Lucy must stop former '80s child star Balthazar Bratt from achieving world domination.
Bubble Boy

Bubble Boy

Todd

2001

Jimmy is a young man who was born without an immune system and has lived his life within a plastic bubble in his bedroom... who pines for the sweet caresses of girl-next-door Chloe. But when Chloe decides to marry her high school boyfriend, Jimmy – bubble suit and all – treks cross-country to stop her.

Production

Despicable Me 4

Despicable Me 4

Writer

2024

Gru and Lucy and their girls—Margo, Edith and Agnes—welcome a new member to the Gru family, Gru Jr., who is intent on tormenting his dad. Gru also faces a new nemesis in Maxime Le Mal and his femme fatale girlfriend Valentina, forcing the family to go on the run.
Migration

Migration

Additional Writing

2023

After a migrating duck family alights on their pond with thrilling tales of far-flung places, the Mallard family embarks on a family road trip, from New England, to New York City, to tropical Jamaica.
Despicable Me

Despicable Me

Screenplay

2010

Villainous Gru lives up to his reputation as a despicable, deplorable and downright unlikable guy when he hatches a plan to steal the moon from the sky. But he has a tough time staying on task after three orphans land in his care.
The Lorax

The Lorax

Screenplay

2012

A 12-year-old boy searches for the one thing that will enable him to win the affection of the girl of his dreams. To find it he must discover the story of the Lorax, the grumpy yet charming creature who fights to protect his world.
Despicable Me 2

Despicable Me 2

Writer

2013

Gru is recruited by the Anti-Villain League to help deal with a powerful new super criminal.
Minions

Minions

Characters

2015

Minions Stuart, Kevin and Bob are recruited by Scarlet Overkill, a super-villain who, alongside her inventor husband Herb, hatches a plot to take over the world.
Despicable Me 3

Despicable Me 3

Writer

2017

Gru and his wife Lucy must stop former '80s child star Balthazar Bratt from achieving world domination.
Horton Hears a Who!

Horton Hears a Who!

Screenplay

2008

The classic and beloved story from Dr. Seuss is now a CG animated film from 20th Century Fox Animation, the makers of the Ice Age films. An imaginative elephant named Horton (Jim Carrey) hears a faint cry for help coming from a tiny speck of dust floating through the air. Horton suspects there may be life on that speck and despite a surrounding community, which thinks he has lost his mind, he is determined to save the tiny particle! Jim Carrey and Steve Carell lead an all-star cast in bringing this wonderful family picture to life!
Hop

Hop

Story

2011

E.B., the Easter Bunny's teenage son, heads to Hollywood, determined to become a drummer in a rock 'n' roll band. In L.A., he's taken in by Fred after the out-of-work slacker hits E.B. with his car.
The Secret Life of Pets

The Secret Life of Pets

Writer

2016

The quiet life of a terrier named Max is upended when his owner takes in Duke, a stray whom Max instantly dislikes.
Bubble Boy

Bubble Boy

Writer

2001

Jimmy is a young man who was born without an immune system and has lived his life within a plastic bubble in his bedroom... who pines for the sweet caresses of girl-next-door Chloe. But when Chloe decides to marry her high school boyfriend, Jimmy – bubble suit and all – treks cross-country to stop her.
The Santa Clause 2

The Santa Clause 2

Screenplay

2002

Better watch out! The big guy in red is coming to town once again. This time, Scott Calvin -- also known as Santa Claus -- finds out there's an obscure clause in his contract requiring him to take on a wife. He has to leave the North Pole to fulfill his obligations, or else he'll be forced to give up his Yuletide gig.