Photo Credit:Youtube/Universal Pictures
The highly anticipated Shrek 5 is officially happening, and it comes with an exciting surprise: Zendaya will be voicing Felicia, the daughter of Shrek and Fiona. The film is scheduled to hit theaters on December 23, 2026, just in time for the 25 th anniversary of the original Shrek movie, which debuted in 2001.
Franchise enthusiasts will be thrilled to know that Mike Myers, Eddie Murphy, and Cameron Diaz are returning to their iconic roles as Shrek, Donkey, and Fiona. The film will be helmed by Walt Dohrn and Conrad Vernon, both franchise veterans who have contributed to building the world of Far, Far Away. Brad Ableson, having worked on Minions: The Rise of Gru, will co-direct.
The production Is in the hands of Gina Shay, who produced Shrek Forever After, and Chris Meledandri, the CEO of Illumination (the studio behind Despicable Me and The Super Mario Bros. Movie).
Zendaya, who has had roles in Dune: Part Two, Euphoria, and the Spider-Man franchise, will lend the voice of Shrek and Fiona’s teenage daughter, Felicia. Felicia appears as a street-smart teen with a red mane of hair, nose ring, and fiery attitude in the first teaser trailer.
Zendaya’s casting has already caused a stir online, largely because she has already made public statements expressing that she adores the Shrek franchise. She tweeted in 2017 how much she loved the series, and this part will be a moment of full circle for the
actress.
While plot details are secreted away, insiders say that the film will have Shrek and Fiona navigating parenthood among teen ogres. Felicia, and her brothers Fergus and Farkle, could bring new humor to the franchise as they clash with their overprotective parents.
Eddie Murphy has also intimated that Donkey may have a bigger part in the next installment. Murphy recently let the cat out of the bag in an interview that there may be a Donkey spin-off on the cards, further expanding the Shrek franchise.
Since its original release in 2001, the Shrek franchise has grossed over $2.9 billion at the global box office and is a cultural phenomenon. The franchise has given rise to a Broadway musical, theme park attractions, and a massive fan base that continues to grow.
The return of the original cast, the introduction of a new generation of characters, and the continued irreverent humor of the Shrek franchise make Shrek 5 one of the most eagerly awaited animated films of the decade.
As we approach its release, fans can expect more trailers, teasers, and behind-the- scenes glimpses into what will be a nostalgic yet fresh addition to the Shrek franchise.
