DreamWorks Animation has officially announced the highly anticipated release date for “Shrek 5,” marking a major return for the beloved franchise. The film is set to hit theaters on July 1, 2026, bringing back the iconic trio of Mike Myers, Eddie Murphy, and Cameron Diaz to reprise their roles as Shrek, Donkey, and Fiona, respectively. The announcement has generated significant excitement among fans, who have eagerly awaited the continuation of the adventures in the fantastical land of Far Far Away.
The “Shrek” franchise began with the original film in 2001, which was a groundbreaking success, earning over $484 million at the global box office and winning the first-ever Academy Award for Best Animated Feature. The film is loosely based on the 1990 picture book by writer and cartoonist William Steig. Its sequel, “Shrek 2” (2004), was even more successful, grossing over $928 million worldwide and becoming the highest-grossing animated film at the time. “Shrek the Third” (2007) continued the trend, earning over $813 million globally. The fourth film, “Shrek Forever After” (2010), while not as financially dominant as its predecessors, still garnered a respectable $752 million worldwide. The franchise has also expanded into various media, including a Broadway musical, video games, and theme park attractions, further cementing its place in popular culture.
The journey to “Shrek 5” has been a long one, with discussions and hints about the film circulating for several years. Eddie Murphy, known for his memorable portrayal of Donkey, hinted at the project’s progress in various interviews, building anticipation. The film will be directed by Michael McCullers, who previously worked on the screenplay for “Shrek the Third.” The storyline for “Shrek 5” is being kept under wraps, but fans can expect the same blend of fairy tale parody and heartfelt storytelling that has been a hallmark of the franchise.
