As DreamWorks Animation’s Shrek celebrates its 25th anniversary this year, Universal Products & Experiences (UP&E) is marking the milestone at Licensing Expo 2026 by unveiling plans for the release of DreamWorks Animation’s Shrek 5, the thrilling next adventure in one of the most beloved global animated franchises of all time.
Arriving in cinemas on June 30, 2027, Shrek 5 marks the long-awaited return of one of animation’s most enduring franchises. The film reunites comedy legends Mike Myers, Eddie Murphy and Cameron Diaz in their signature roles as Shrek, Donkey and Fiona, joined by global star Zendaya.
The release will be supported by a comprehensive, cross‑company campaign spanning film, television, streaming and consumer products as well as theme park and digital experiences. From global marketing moments and immersive fan experiences to coordinated retail activations, the campaign is designed to position Shrek 5 as one of the defining cultural events of the summer.
“As Shrek celebrates 25 years of cultural impact and looks toward its next cinematic chapter, the franchise is stepping into an exciting new era,” said Rafa Macias, Executive Vice President, Global Consumer Products & Games, Universal Products & Experiences. “This new chapter celebrates a beloved legacy—bringing new partners and experiences to life— while honoring the fans who’ve grown up with Shrek and introducing the joy and irreverent humor of Far, Far Away to new audiences.”
This year will also mark the debut of an expanded presence in theme parks including the all-new Universal Kids Resort – a regional theme park specifically designed for families with young children coming to Frisco, Texas later this summer. Shrek and friends will be present in DreamWorks’ Shrek’s Swamp. The attraction Shrek & Fiona’s Happily Ogre After will take kids and their families on a special ride through the story of how Shrek met Fiona. Built by Shrek for their triplets, families will ride along to relive the quest to rescue Princess Fiona, with help from Donkey of course. For ogre-sized appetites, Shrek’s triplets’ favorite eats will be served at Swamp Snacks including the Shrekzel. For swamp apparel, accessories and plush for the whole family, Triplets Treasures will allow parents to shop for themselves along with matching and complementary outfits for their growing ogres. Kids and their grown-ups will also have a chance to meet Shrek and Fiona. Two interactive play areas, Shrek’s Swamp Rompin’ Stomp and Shrek’s Swamp Splash & Smash, will allow kids to stomp and/or splash away.
For the past two decades, audiences have been enchanted by the irreverent adventures of a misunderstood ogre and his ragtag group of roguish fairy-tale folk. The four Shrek franchise films have earned more than $2.9 billion worldwide, spawning a global live-touring show, an award-winning Broadway musical that earned eight Tony® nominations and 12 Drama Desk nominations, plus an immersive, top-tourist destination in London and popular events and attractions across Universal Destinations & Experiences’ theme parks including Universal Orlando Resort, Universal Beijing Resort and Universal Studios Singapore.
These qualities have enabled the brand to resonate across generations, from millennials who grew up with the original films, to Gen Z audiences driving renewed relevance through digital and meme culture, to younger viewers discovering the franchise for the first time through streaming.
