"Shrek 5" - Fans will have to wait until July 2026
"Shrek 5" is expectedly not to come to cinemas until 2026, according to the production company's recent announcement. This contradicts previous rumors in November from a former employee's Social Media post that suggested the animation film would be released in 2025. Mike Myers (61), Eddie Murphy (63), and Cameron Diaz (51) are confirmed to reprise their roles as the title character, the donkey, and Princess Fiona, respectively.
DreamWorks Animation announced on Wednesday via X (formerly Twitter) that "Shrek 5" is officially in development, with a release date planned for July 1, 2026.
Eddie Murphy revealed in June that he had begun voice recording for the film and that a Puss in Boots spin-off was also in the works. Antonio Banderas' (63) return as the temperamental cat is yet to be confirmed. According to US industry portal "Variety," Walt Dohrn is taking over the direction, having contributed as a writer and artist to "Shrek 2" and "Shrek the Third," and serving as the story chief for "Puss in Boots: The Last Wish."
"Shrek" as a Blockbuster Franchise
The "Shrek" series released four movies between 2001 and 2010. The original "Shrek" made DreamWorks Animation a major player in the industry with a global box office revenue of $487 million. The film was the first Oscar winner in the Animated Film category. "Shrek 2" earned $928 million worldwide in 2004. "Shrek the Third" (2007) and "Puss in Boots" (2011) received less critical acclaim but still managed to gross $813 million and $555 million worldwide, respectively.
The "Shrek" franchise also includes the spin-offs "Puss in Boots" (2011) and "Puss in Boots: The Last Wish" (2022).
Mike Myers, who played the title character in the "Shrek" series, is set to return for "Shrek 5". The confirmation of "Shrek 5" coming in 2026 from DreamWorks Animation marks Eddie Murphy's return as the donkey and Cameron Diaz as Princess Fiona as well. Despite previous rumors suggesting a 2025 release, the production company has announced a delayed release date.
