The beloved green ogre returns to theatres in July 2026 with Mike Myers, Eddie Murphy, and Cameron Diaz

After a 16-year break, Shrek is set to return to the big screen with its fifth instalment, DreamWorks Animation announced. The iconic franchise, featuring Mike Myers, Eddie Murphy, and Cameron Diaz, will bring back its original cast for the highly anticipated film, slated for release in July 2026. The announcement has thrilled fans who have been waiting for the ogre’s return since the last film in 2010.

The Shrek series, which began in 2001, quickly became a cultural phenomenon. The original movie, based on William Steig’s 1990 fairy tale book, introduced audiences to the grumpy yet lovable ogre Shrek, voiced by Mike Myers, and his hilarious sidekick Donkey, voiced by Eddie Murphy. Cameron Diaz’s character, Princess Fiona, added a unique twist to the traditional damsel-in-distress trope.

The second film, released in 2004, continued the adventures of Shrek and his friends, introducing new characters and further developing the story. Shrek the Third (2007) and Shrek Forever After (2010) solidified the franchise’s popularity, with each film drawing large audiences and critical acclaim.

“Not too Far, Far Away… @Shrek 5 is coming to theatres on July 1, 2026, with Mike Myers, Eddie Murphy, and Cameron Diaz,” Universal Pictures announced on X (formerly Twitter). The news quickly went viral, with fans expressing their excitement and nostalgia. One fan replied, “A generation of adults have been waiting for this announcement.” Another joked, “I’m seated. The theatre employees are scared and asking me to leave because ‘the movie doesn’t exist yet’ but I’m simply too seated.”

The buzz surrounding Shrek 5 intensified after Eddie Murphy, who famously voices Donkey, hinted at the film’s production. Speaking to Collider, Murphy revealed, “We started doing [Shrek 5] months ago. I recorded the first act and we’ll be doing it this year, we’ll finish it up. Donkey’s gonna have his own movie. We’re gonna do Donkey as well. We’re doing a Donkey one next.”

Chris Meledandri, a prominent figure in animation, also hinted at the original cast’s return. “We anticipate the cast coming back. Talks are starting now, and every indication that we’ve gotten is there’s tremendous enthusiasm on behalf of the actors to return,” he said. True to his words, the original cast members are indeed returning.

Mike Myers, the voice of Shrek, has always been vocal about his love for the character. In a 2023 interview with GQ, he stated, “I loved playing Shrek. If I had to do one Shrek a year, I’d be thrilled.”

Shrek’s legacy as a blockbuster success is undeniable. The first film grossed $42 million during its opening weekend and went on to earn $267 million in the US and $484 million worldwide. It also made history by winning the first-ever Academy Award for Best Animated Feature.

Analysis

Political

The return of Shrek can be seen as a reflection of the current political climate where nostalgia plays a significant role in public sentiment. In a time of political polarization, the announcement of a beloved franchise’s return offers a moment of unity and collective excitement. The characters of Shrek, Donkey, and Fiona transcend political divides, appealing to a broad audience that spans different political beliefs.

The Shrek franchise has always contained subtle political satire, poking fun at various aspects of society. The return of Shrek provides an opportunity to address contemporary issues through humour and animation. The film’s release could serve as a reminder of simpler times and a respite from current political tensions.

Social

Socially, Shrek’s return highlights the enduring appeal of classic animated films and their impact on multiple generations. The original film’s release in 2001 captivated children and adults alike, creating a shared cultural experience. As the franchise returns, it will likely bring together fans from different age groups, fostering intergenerational connections.

The themes of Shrek, such as self-acceptance and the importance of inner beauty, resonate strongly in today’s society. The franchise’s message of embracing one’s true self and rejecting societal pressures aligns with current social movements that emphasize authenticity and self-love. The return of Shrek can reinforce these positive messages and inspire a new generation of viewers.

Racial

From a racial perspective, Shrek 5 has the potential to contribute to the ongoing conversation about representation in media. The original films, while groundbreaking in many ways, were primarily centred on characters that did not reflect a diverse range of backgrounds. The new film could seize the opportunity to introduce more diverse characters and voices, reflecting the world’s multicultural reality.

Eddie Murphy’s portrayal of Donkey has been a highlight of the franchise, showcasing his comedic talent and bringing a unique energy to the character. As Hollywood continues to strive for greater inclusivity, Shrek 5 could serve as a platform to celebrate and highlight diverse talent both in front of and behind the camera.

Gender

Gender dynamics within the Shrek franchise have evolved over the years, with Princess Fiona emerging as a strong, independent character who defies traditional gender roles. The return of Shrek offers a chance to further develop Fiona’s character and explore new dimensions of her story.

In today’s context, where discussions about gender equality and representation are more prominent than ever, Shrek 5 can contribute to these conversations by portraying nuanced and empowering female characters. The film could also address issues such as gender stereotypes and promote positive messages about gender diversity and equality.

Economical

Economically, the announcement of Shrek 5 is significant for the film industry and related markets. The Shrek franchise has been a lucrative asset for DreamWorks Animation, generating substantial box office revenue and merchandise sales. The new film is expected to boost the studio’s financial performance and attract a wide audience.

The return of Shrek will likely stimulate various sectors of the economy, from cinemas to streaming platforms, as fans eagerly await the film’s release. Merchandise sales, promotional tie-ins, and related products will also benefit from the renewed interest in the franchise. Additionally, the film’s success could encourage the production of more sequels and spin-offs, creating further economic opportunities.

The nostalgia factor associated with Shrek 5 cannot be underestimated. The film will attract long-time fans who grew up with the original movies, as well as new viewers discovering the franchise for the first time. This broad appeal will translate into significant box office returns and sustained interest in the Shrek universe.