Shrek 5 Release Date: Big news for Shrek fans! The beloved franchise is making a grand return with Shrek 5, and the latest update has sent waves of excitement through the fandom. Universal Pictures recently confirmed that Zendaya has joined the cast to voice Felicia, the daughter of Shrek (voiced by Mike Myers) and Fiona (voiced by Cameron Diaz). While many are thrilled about the casting, some fans have expressed mixed feelings about the film’s updated animation style.
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Watch the Shrek 5 Teaser Below
On February 27, Universal and DreamWorks dropped a teaser clip that gave fans a sneak peek into the new world of Far, Far Away. The clip starts with Donkey playfully asking the Magic Mirror, “Hey Magic Mirror, who’s the fairest of them all?” The Magic Mirror, in a humorous twist, responds, “Why Shrek! Of course.” However, this time around, the Magic Mirror has a modern upgrade, allowing Shrek to scroll through different Gen Z-inspired looks.
Felicia’s reaction to her dad’s new appearance is priceless, as she exclaims, “Ew, dad!” Meanwhile, Fiona’s response is more amused as she comments, “Oooh, Mommy like.” Shrek, clearly confused, wonders aloud, “Who is making this stuff?” Just then, Pinocchio pops up with a cheeky reply, “Not me!”
The teaser immediately sparked discussions online, with Zendaya’s involvement making the biggest splash. Fans quickly took to social media to express their excitement. One fan wrote, “Zendaya as Shrek’s daughter? This franchise just got even more legendary.” Another chimed in, “Zendaya era loading: Disney, HBO, MCU, and now…the swamp.”
Fans Love the Casting but Question the Animation Style
While the casting news received an overwhelmingly positive response, not everyone is thrilled about the animation changes. Some fans voiced concerns that the new visuals stray too far from the original Shrek aesthetic.
One fan commented, “Bring back the old character models.” Another added, “The animation is the only thing that’s pissing me off, I’m still seated of course.”
Despite these concerns, many are still eager to see what Shrek 5 has in store. A fan humorously pointed out, “From Challengers to Euphoria to Spider-Man to Dune to Shrek… girl just never rests.”
Shrek 5 Release Date
It has been a long wait for Shrek fans, as the last film in the franchise, Shrek Forever After, was released back in 2010. After more than a decade, Shrek 5 is finally set to hit theaters on December 23, 2026—exactly 25 years after the first Shrek movie became a box office sensation.
Meanwhile, Eddie Murphy will reprise his role as Donkey, adding to the excitement. The makers recently unveiled a teaser offering a first glimpse of Zendaya’s character, further fueling anticipation.
Zendaya has been a long-time Shrek fan. In August 2017, she tweeted, “I watch Shrek too often in my adulthood.” After her casting was announced, the official Shrek Instagram account re-posted her old tweet, humorously adding, “This aged well.”
New Direction with Familiar Faces
DreamWorks Animation first announced in July 2023 that Shrek 5 was in development, initially planning a July 2026 release. The film is now scheduled for a Christmas premiere, making it the perfect holiday treat for fans.
The film will be directed by Walt Dohrn, who has a long history with the Shrek series. He worked as a writer and artist on Shrek 2 and Shrek the Third and served as the head of story on Shrek Forever After. Brad Ableson will co-direct the film alongside Dohrn, ensuring a fresh yet nostalgic experience for audiences.
Zendaya’s Busy Schedule
Apart from Shrek 5, Zendaya has an impressive lineup of upcoming projects. She will return for Euphoria Season 3, star in Dune: Messiah, and take on a role in Christopher Nolan’s upcoming film The Odyssey.
With Zendaya joining the cast, the return of fan-favorite characters, and plenty of humor, Shrek 5 promises to be a nostalgic yet fresh take on the beloved franchise. Whether or not fans warm up to the new animation style, one thing is clear—Shrek is back, and the swamp is buzzing with excitement!
We want to hear from you! Are you excited to see Zendaya join the Shrek universe? What do you think about the new animation style? Drop your thoughts in the comments below and let’s discuss!
FAQs
When is Shrek 5 releasing?
Shrek 5 is set to release in theaters on December 23, 2026, making it a perfect holiday movie.
Who is Zendaya playing in Shrek 5?
Zendaya will voice Felicia, the daughter of Shrek and Fiona in the upcoming film.
Is the original cast returning for Shrek 5?
Yes! Mike Myers (Shrek), Cameron Diaz (Fiona), and Eddie Murphy (Donkey) are all returning.
