Shrek returns: Universal unveils first teaser for Shrek 5

Universal Pictures has released the first teaser trailer for Shrek 5, with the film set to premiere on June 30, 2027, Deadline reports.

The previous instalment in the franchise, Shrek Forever After, was released 16 years ago in 2010.

The new film will see the return of the franchise’s original stars: Mike Myers as Shrek, Eddie Murphy as Donkey, and Cameron Diaz as Fiona. Joining the cast is Zendaya, known for Dune and Euphoria, who will voice Felicia, the teenage daughter of Shrek and Fiona. Shrek’s sons, Fergus and Farkle, will be voiced by Marcello Hernández and Skyler Gisondo.

Plot details remain under wraps, but the teaser suggests that Shrek, Fiona, Donkey and the ogre family embark on an adventure to the City of Further Further Away. Things quickly go awry, however, as most of the group ends up behind bars, where Donkey once again breaks into song. Felicia appears to be the only family member to avoid imprisonment.

One notable absence from the teaser is Puss in Boots, previously voiced by Antonio Banderas.

The filmmakers also appear to take a playful jab at Disney. The teaser features Olaf from Frozen, reimagined as a down-and-out snowman, while the Gingerbread Man returns in the form of a newly baked cupcake mascot.

Shrek 5 is directed by Walt Dohrn and Conrad Vernon. Vernon was part of the directing team behind Shrek 2 and also worked on Madagascar 3: Europe's Most Wanted and Monsters vs. Aliens. He has also voiced the Gingerbread Man throughout the franchise. Dohrn previously worked as a writer and artist on Shrek 2 and Shrek the Third, and voiced Rumpelstiltskin in Shrek Forever After.

The original Shrek premiered in 2001, launching one of the most successful animated franchises in cinema history.