Shrek 5 Delayed as It Swaps Release Dates With Minions 3

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 allows the Despicable Me spin-off to capitalize on the lucrative Independence Day box office, as reported by Variety. The long-awaited Shrek 5, marking the franchise's return after a 16-year hiatus, will now aim for the holiday season.

Initially announced in 2016, the project remained relatively quiet until 2023 when Chris Meledandri, CEO of Illumination, confirmed its active development, along with hints of a potential Donkey spin-off. Eddie Murphy, the voice of Donkey, further confirmed the film's progress in 2024, stating that recording had begun and that a solo Donkey film was also in the works.

Shrek 5's release will coincide with the 25th anniversary of the original Shrek film, which premiered in 2001. The franchise has previously seen the release of Shrek 2 (2004), Shrek the Third (2007), and Shrek Forever After (2010). The popular Puss in Boots spin-off series also boasts two successful films, the first 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 "poignant, surprisingly mature story."