Universal Pictures shuffles its release schedule, pushing back Shrek 5 to December 23, 2026, while Minions 3, a Despicable Me spin-off, retains its original July 1, 2026 premiere.
Variety reports that this strategic shift aligns Minions 3 with the traditional Independence Day box office bonanza, a pattern established by previous Despicable Me installments. Shrek 5, conversely, aims for the lucrative holiday season, marking its highly anticipated return after a 16-year hiatus.
Initially announced in 2016, the project remained relatively dormant until 2023, when Illumination CEO Chris Meledandri confirmed its active development, also hinting at a potential Donkey spin-off.
Eddie Murphy, the voice of Donkey, further substantiated the film's progress in 2024, adding fuel to the Donkey spin-off speculation. "We started working on Shrek 5 months ago," he revealed. "I've recorded the first act, and we'll finish it this year. Shrek is coming out, and Donkey's getting his own movie too."
The release of Shrek 5 will coincide with the 25th anniversary of the original Shrek film, which debuted in 2001. This was followed by Shrek 2 (2004), Shrek the Third (2007), and Shrek Forever After (2010).
The popular Puss in Boots character has also starred in two successful spin-offs: the first in 2011 and Puss in Boots: The Last Wish in 2022. The latter received widespread critical acclaim, including a 9/10 rating from IGN, which praised its "stunning animation" and "poignant, surprisingly mature story," calling it the "Shrek franchise's answer to Logan."
