Universal Pictures shuffles its release schedule, pushing back Shrek 5 to December 23, 2026, while keeping Minions 3 in its original July 1, 2026, slot. This strategic move capitalizes on the established success of Despicable Me films during the Independence Day weekend, according to Variety. The long-awaited Shrek 5 will now aim for the lucrative holiday season, marking its return after a 16-year hiatus.
Initially announced in 2016, the project remained relatively dormant until 2023 when Chris Meledandri, CEO of Illumination, confirmed its active development, hinting at a potential Donkey spin-off. Eddie Murphy, the voice of Donkey, further solidified the project's progress in 2024, stating that recording for the first act was complete and that both Shrek 5 and a Donkey solo film were in the works.
Shrek 5's release will coincide with the 25th anniversary of the original Shrek film, which debuted in 2001. The franchise's success continued with Shrek 2 (2004), Shrek the Third (2007), and Shrek Forever After (2010). The popular Puss in Boots spin-off series also saw success with its first installment in 2011 and the critically acclaimed Puss in Boots: The Last Wish in 2022, which IGN rated a 9/10, praising its stunning animation and mature storytelling. The studio clearly hopes to recapture that magic with the upcoming releases.
