‘Shrek 5’ Confirmed: Original Cast Set to Return

Some 14 years after Shrek lived happily ever after, he’s making a grand return in a fifth film featuring the franchise’s original cast.

DreamWorks announced the news on social media, confirming that Shrek 5 is slated to hit theaters on July 1, 2026, with Mike Myers, Eddie Murphy, and Cameron Diaz reprising their iconic roles.

Shrek 5, the first sequel since 2010’s Shrek Forever After, will be directed by Walt Dohrn. Dohrn has previously contributed as a writer and head of story on the three preceding sequels.

The Shrek franchise stands as one of the most financially successful series in film history. Including the two spinoff films—2011’s Puss in Boots and 2022’s Puss in Boots: The Last Wish—the series has accumulated over $4 billion in global earnings. This figure doesn’t even account for home video sales, merchandise, soundtracks, and other revenue streams generated by the franchise. The impact of Shrek extends to theme park attractions and an impending entire theme park area, not to mention a brief stint as a quesadilla-themed product.

Eddie Murphy has been particularly outspoken about his desire to revisit the Shrek universe. In January 2023, he expressed interest in returning as Donkey either in a new Shrek sequel or a potential spinoff. Murphy humorously remarked, “I love Donkey. They did Puss in Boots movies. I was like, ‘They should have done a Donkey movie! Donkey is funnier than Puss in Boots!’ I love Puss in Boots, but he ain’t as funny as the Donkey.”

Despite Shrek Forever After being marketed as “The Final Chapter,” it appears that the adventures in the fairytale world are far from over. The announcement of Shrek 5 brings fans back into the fold, reinvigorating excitement for more beloved tales featuring Shrek and his friends.

Shrek 5 is scheduled to premiere in theaters on July 1, 2026. With less than two years to go, fans can gear up to become all-stars once again.