Universal Pictures’ long-running animated franchise is returning with Shrek 5, nearly 15 years after the last main installment, Shrek Forever After, reached theaters in 2010. The original Shrek film, released in 2001, became a major hit by appealing to both children and adults with its fairy-tale setting, playful humor, and memorable characters. Its success launched a large franchise that includes three sequels and spinoff films centered on Puss in Boots.
The new film is scheduled for release on June 30, 2027. That date marks the latest official theatrical launch for the series, following earlier speculation and teasing from cast members. Eddie Murphy, who voices Donkey, previously suggested a 2025 release in an interview, but the studio’s current plan points to 2027.
The core original cast is set to return. Mike Myers will reprise Shrek, Cameron Diaz will return as Fiona, Eddie Murphy as Donkey, and Antonio Banderas as Puss in Boots. The film also adds new cast members Zendaya, Marcello Hernandez, and Skyler Gisondo, expanding the ensemble for the next chapter in the franchise. According to IMDb, the screenplay credits include Michael McCullers, Christopher Meladandri, and William Steig.
Plot details for Shrek 5 have not been officially revealed. However, fans have already been given a possible hint about where the story may go. In the 2022 film Puss in Boots: The Last Wish, a post-credits scene showed Puss sailing back to Far Far Away, the kingdom first introduced in Shrek 2. The scene was widely viewed as a signal that the world of Shrek would continue to expand.
Eddie Murphy has been one of the first major stars to discuss the project publicly. In an interview with Collider, he said he had already recorded the “first act” of the film several months earlier. He also said a standalone Donkey movie is in development, adding that voice recording for that project had not yet begun. His comments increased interest in the future of the franchise and suggested DreamWorks is planning more stories beyond Shrek 5.
Joel Crawford, co-director of Puss in Boots: The Last Wish, also commented on the Easter egg in the 2022 movie. He said the Far Far Away reference was added in hopes that audiences would respond positively and want to see more of the Shrek universe. Crawford explained that the creative team did not have a detailed master plan at the time, but included the tease as an optimistic nod to fans.
After years without a new mainline Shrek movie, the franchise is now preparing for a major return. With its original voices back, new cast additions, and a 2027 release date, Shrek 5 is positioned as one of the most anticipated animated sequels in development.
