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

From the cast to a potential release date, here’s everything to know about 'Shrek 5' and a possible Donkey spinoff

Moviestore/Shutterstock Shrek and Donkey in 'Shrek 2'

Fans of the beloved Shrek franchise have reason to celebrate: Eddie Murphy said that he’s already begun recording voiceovers for Shrek 5!

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 in June 2024. “Shrek is coming out, and Donkey’s gonna have his own movie. We’re gonna do Donkey as well. So we’re gonna do a Shrek, and we’re doing a Donkey [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 spinoff. The six films have grossed over $1.6 billion combined.

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

When will Shrek 5 be released?

Moviestore/Shutterstock Shrek, Fiona and Donkey in 'Shrek 2'

Murphy showed optimism that the film may come as soon as next year.

“I think it's coming out in 2025, and we're doing a Donkey one next,” Murphy told Collider.

However, DreamWorks Animation and Universal have yet to confirm this or share a potential release date.

Who is in the cast?

Lester Cohen/WireImage Mike Myers, Eddie Murphy and Cameron Diaz in 2010

Murphy has confirmed his return as Donkey, and Illumination CEO Chris Meledandri previously voiced his intention to bring back the original voices of Mike Myers as Shrek and Cameron Diaz as Fiona.

"We anticipate the cast coming back," Meledandri told Variety in April 2023. "Every indication that we've gotten is there's tremendous enthusiasm on behalf of the actors to return."

Myers has also said he loves playing Shrek and would be enthusiastic about more films in the series.

"I loved playing Shrek," Myers told GQ in May 2022. "If I had to do one Shrek a year I'd be thrilled."

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?

Dream Works Animation/Kobal/Shutterstock Shrek and Donkey in 'Shrek Forever After'

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?

There is no official announcement regarding the director for Shrek 5. The previous films in the series were directed by Andrew Adamson, Vicky Jenson, Kelly Asbury and Mike Mitchell. It remains to be seen if any of these directors will return or if a new director will take the helm for the latest installment.

What has Eddie Murphy said about returning to Shrek?

Michael Kovac/Getty Eddie Murphy attends Critics' Choice Association's Celebration of Black Cinema in 2019

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."

Read the original article on People.