DreamWorks Animation has officially greenlit “Shrek 5,” slated for release on July 1, 2026, marking a return to the beloved swamp for fans worldwide. The announcement confirms the reprisal of original stars Mike Myers, Eddie Murphy, and Cameron Diaz, who will reprise their iconic roles as Shrek, Donkey, and Princess Fiona, respectively.
However, Antonio Banderas’ return as the swashbuckling Puss in Boots has not yet been confirmed for the upcoming installment. Directed by Walt Dohrn, known for his work on previous “Shrek” films including “Shrek 2” and “Shrek the Third,” and produced by Gina Shay and Illumination founder Chris Meledandri, “Shrek 5” promises to continue the legacy of the franchise. Brad Ableson joins as co-director for the highly anticipated sequel.
The news of Murphy’s involvement came to light earlier this year when he revealed he had already started recording his lines for the film. Murphy also teased a spinoff centered on Donkey, stating, “‘Shrek’ is coming out and Donkey’s gonna have his own movie.”
Not too Far, Far Away… @Shrek 5 is coming to theaters on July 1, 2026 with Mike Myers, Eddie Murphy, and Cameron Diaz. pic.twitter.com/3j6ctXpPGu
— DreamWorks Animation (@Dreamworks) July 9, 2024
The “Shrek” series, which debuted in 2001 with its groundbreaking blend of humor and heart, propelled DreamWorks Animation into the spotlight with its initial installment grossing $487 million worldwide and winning the first-ever Academy Award for Best Animated Feature. Subsequent films, “Shrek 2” and “Shrek the Third,” continued the franchise’s success, grossing $928 million and $813 million, respectively. “Shrek Forever After,” while earning less acclaim, still managed a substantial $752 million globally.
In addition to the main series, spinoff films such as “Puss in Boots” proved equally successful, with the first film grossing $555 million and its sequel earning $484 million worldwide.
Universal Pictures, which acquired DreamWorks Animation in 2016, has tasked Chris Meledandri with overseeing the revival of both the “Shrek” and “Puss in Boots” franchises. Meledandri, known for his work on the “Despicable Me” series and the upcoming “Super Mario Bros. Movie,” emphasized the importance of retaining the original vocal performances that defined the charm of the “Shrek” films.
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Reflecting on the franchise’s enduring appeal, Meledandri commented, “When you look back on those vocal performances they’re awesome, and while you certainly could make a case for a complete reinvention, I find myself responding to my own nostalgic feelings of wanting to go back to those characterizations.”
The return of the original cast members underscores Universal’s commitment to honoring the legacy of “Shrek” while exploring new narratives that resonate with both longtime fans and a new generation of viewers. As the studio prepares to bring back the beloved ogre and his eclectic companions, anticipation for “Shrek 5” continues to build among fans eager to revisit the whimsical world of Far Far Away.
