For more than two decades, an unlikely green hero has held a permanent place in pop culture. Shrek debuted in 2001, reshaping animated comedy with its blend of fairy-tale parody and sharp humor. Four films later, the franchise remains one of DreamWorks’ crown jewels, buoyed by strong nostalgia and the enduring popularity of its spinoffs.
The 2010 release of Shrek Forever After was billed as the end of the ogre’s cinematic journey. Yet, the franchise never truly went away. Fans saw fresh life in the world through 2022’s Puss in Boots: The Last Wish, which brought in critical acclaim (rightfully so) and renewed interest in returning to the swamp.
Shrek’s reach extends far beyond movie theaters. Theme park attractions have carried the torch for years, from Shrek 4-D at various Universal Studios parks to a themed land at Motiongate Dubai. Universal Orlando’s DreamWorks Land also features Shrek alongside other animated favorites, while London offers an entire walkthrough attraction, Shrek’s Adventure.
A Long-Awaited Return
For years, a fifth installment seemed unlikely. Former DreamWorks CEO Jeffrey Katzenberg (whose feelings towards former Disney CEO Michael Eisner are long rumored to have inspired the character of Shrek villain Lord Farquaad) publicly stated that the studio would conclude the story with the fourth film. That changed in 2024, when Illumination CEO Chris Meledandri confirmed Shrek 5 was in development.
Original cast members Mike Myers, Cameron Diaz, and Eddie Murphy were announced to return. Zendaya joined the lineup as the voice of Shrek’s daughter, Felicia. A teaser released earlier this year gave audiences a first glimpse – and sparked heated debate over the characters’ updated aesthetic.
Even the Donkey meet-and-greet performer at Universal Orlando Resort weighed in, joking, “I look rough.” Online, reactions ranged from excitement to concern over whether the fifth installment could match the highs of Shrek 2.
‘Shrek 5’ Faces Another Delay
The wait will now be longer. Universal has moved Shrek 5 from its December 23, 2026, release slot to June 30, 2027. This marks the film’s second delay, following an earlier push from summer 2026.
No official reason was given, but competition in the original window was fierce. Late 2026 already includes Avengers: Doomsday and Ice Age 6, both expected to draw large audiences. Moving to summer avoids that crowded holiday season.
The new date comes with its own rivals. Shrek 5 will now open opposite Spider-Man: Beyond the Spider-Verse, itself delayed multiple times from its original March 2024 release. An untitled DC Studios film is also set for that summer, making the box office race just as competitive.
Before Shrek 5 arrives, Universal will release the live-action remake of How to Train Your Dragon 2. The first live-action Dragon film proved a success, cementing the studio’s strategy of balancing animation with reimagined classics.
Despite the delay, interest in Shrek’s return remains strong. The character’s cross-generational appeal, combined with a returning cast and new talent, has kept anticipation high. Whether the extended wait results in a film worthy of the swamp remains to be seen – but fans appear willing to hold out for the ogre’s next chapter.
Are you excited for Shrek 5?
