Shrek 5 in the Works with Original Cast

DreamWorks Animation Sets July 2026 Release Date; Eddie Murphy Teases Donkey Spinoff

DreamWorks Animation has officially confirmed that “Shrek 5” is in development and set to be released on July 1, 2026. The original stars, Mike Myers, Eddie Murphy, and Cameron Diaz, are all returning for this new adventure in the beloved franchise.

While Antonio Banderas has not yet been confirmed to reprise his role as Puss in Boots, “Shrek 5” will be directed by Walt Dohrn. Dohrn has a long history with the series, having contributed as a writer and artist on “Shrek 2” and “Shrek the Third,” and served as head of story on “Shrek Forever After,” where he also voiced Rumpelstiltskin. The film is being produced by returning franchise producer Gina Shay and Illumination founder Chris Meledandri, with Brad Ableson co-directing.

Eddie Murphy revealed in June that he has already begun recording for “Shrek 5” and hinted at an upcoming Donkey spinoff movie. “We started doing [‘Shrek 5’] months ago,” Murphy told Collider. “I recorded the first act, and we’ll finish it up this year. ‘Shrek’ is coming out, and Donkey’s gonna have his own movie.”

The “Shrek” series, which debuted between 2001 and 2010 with four feature films, has been a massive success. The first film grossed $487 million worldwide and won the first Oscar for Best Animated Feature. “Shrek 2” was an even bigger hit, earning $928 million globally. Though “Shrek the Third” and “Shrek Forever After” received less acclaim, they still grossed $813 million and $752 million worldwide, respectively. The “Puss in Boots” spinoffs also performed well, grossing $555 million and $484 million.

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

In 2018, Universal Pictures tasked Chris Meledandri, the producer behind the “Despicable Me” franchise and “The Super Mario Bros. Movie,” with reviving the “Shrek” and “Puss in Boots” series. Meledandri emphasized the importance of maintaining the original vocal performances, which he credited as key to the films’ success.

“The vocal performances are awesome,” Meledandri said. “While you could make a case for a complete reinvention, I find myself wanting to return to those characterizations. The challenge has been to create something that feels like more than just another sequel.”

The “Shrek” universe also includes the successful “Puss in Boots” spinoff titles, with the most recent, “Puss in Boots: The Last Wish,” released in December 2022. The film grossed $484 million worldwide and received an Oscar nomination for Best Animated Feature. This success reignited interest in “Shrek 5,” with Eddie Murphy expressing his eagerness to return as Donkey in January 2023.

“If [DreamWorks] ever came with another ‘Shrek,’ I’d do it in two seconds,” Murphy said. “They did ‘Puss in Boots’ movies. I was like, ‘They should have done a Donkey movie.’ Donkey is funnier than Puss in Boots.”

Meledandri echoed Murphy’s enthusiasm, saying in April 2023, “It’s thrilling to see his strong enthusiasm for a role he created so brilliantly. I’m very excited about it.” He also expressed his desire to see the original voice cast return for “Shrek 5,” noting that negotiations with the actors were progressing well.

“We anticipate the cast coming back,” Meledandri said. “Talks are starting now, and every indication we’ve gotten is there’s tremendous enthusiasm from the actors to return.”