Shrek and Donkey Are Coming Back to the Swamp! Everything We Know About Shrek 5 So Far

Fans of the beloved Shrek franchise have reason to celebrate: production on Shrek 5 is well underway.

Eddie Murphy, who has voiced the lovable, comedic character of Donkey since 2001, teased the project in June 2024 — despite DreamWorks Animation not officially announcing the film. Adding to the excitement, Murphy hinted at a standalone Donkey movie, which he believes is likely to happen. 

“We started doing Shrek 4 or [Shrek] 5 months ago. I did this, I recorded the first act, and we’ll be doing it this year, we’ll finish it up,” Murphy told Collider while on a press tour for Beverly Hills Cop: Axel Foley. "Shrek is coming out, and Donkey’s gonna have his own movie."

It’s been over two decades since the first Shrek film premiered, and the franchise has since released three sequels and two Puss in Boots spin-offs. The six films have grossed over $1.6 billion combined.

Here's everything to know about Shrek 5, including a premiere date and what Eddie Murphy has said about reprising his iconic role.

When will Shrek 5 be released?

In July 2024, DreamWorks announced the Shrek 5 premiere date: July 1, 2026.

Who is in the cast?

Murphy, Mike Myers, the voice of Shrek, and Cameron Diaz, the voice of Fiona, will all return for Shrek 5. DreamWorks officially confirmed the cast's return in July 2024.

Which new cast members are joining Shrek 5?

No new cast members have been announced for Shrek 5 at this time. However, as production progresses, new characters and the actors who will voice them may be announced.

What is Shrek 5 about?

Details about the plot of Shrek 5 remain under wraps. However, given the franchise's history, fans can likely expect a continuation of Shrek's adventures in the magical land of Far Far Away, filled with humor, memorable characters and touching moments.

Is there a trailer for Shrek 5?

As of now, there is no trailer available for Shrek 5. Given that the movie is still in the early stages of production, fans may need to wait a bit longer for a first look.

Who is directing Shrek 5?

Walt Dohrn is directing Shrek 5. He was a writer and artist for Shrek 2 and Shrek the Third. He then served as head of story and voiced Rumpelstiltskin on Shrek Forever After.

The previous films in the series were directed by Andrew Adamson, Vicky Jenson, Kelly Asbury and Mike Mitchell.

What has Eddie Murphy said about returning to Shrek?

Throughout the years, Murphy has expressed his fondness for the character Donkey and his enthusiasm for upcoming projects, including the potential standalone Donkey movie. 

"You know, they did Puss in Boots movies," Murphy told Etalk in 2023. "I was like, 'They should have done a Donkey movie. Donkey is funnier than Puss in Boots.' I mean, I love Puss in Boots, but he ain't funny as the Donkey."