Every Original 'Shrek' Star Returning for 'Shrek 5'-and Who's New

After more than a decade away from theaters, Shrek is finally making his long-awaited return.

DreamWorks' upcoming Shrek 5 is bringing back the franchise's core cast, giving fans a reunion many thought they'd never see. The new film marks the first mainline Shrek movie since 2010's Shrek Forever After, and while familiar voices are returning to the swamp, there's also one major new addition generating plenty of buzz.

Mike Myers Returns as Shrek

It wouldn't be Shrek without the lovable green ogre himself.

Mike Myers is set to reprise the role he first voiced in 2001's Shrek, helping launch one of the most successful animated franchises in movie history. Over four films, Myers, 63, turned the grumpy but lovable ogre into an unlikely pop-culture icon.

Cameron Diaz Is Back as Princess Fiona

Fans are thrilled that Cameron Diaz will also return as Princess Fiona.

The actress, 53, famously stepped away from Hollywood for several years before gradually returning to acting projects. Her return to the Shrek universe means audiences will once again hear the voice that helped define one of animation's most memorable princesses.

Eddie Murphy Returns as Donkey

Perhaps no casting announcement generated more excitement than Eddie Murphy's return as Donkey.

Murphy's, 65, fast-talking sidekick became one of the franchise's breakout stars, delivering many of the films' most quotable moments. In recent years, Murphy has repeatedly expressed interest in revisiting the character, even suggesting he'd gladly star in a Donkey spinoff.

Zendaya Joins the Franchise

While the returning cast has generated plenty of nostalgia, the biggest new addition is Zendaya.

The Emmy-winning actress, 29, has officially joined the cast and is expected to voice one of Shrek and Fiona's children, introducing a new generation of characters to the story.

The casting announcement immediately caught fans' attention, partly because Zendaya had previously joked online about being a longtime Shrek fan herself. Many viewers quickly resurfaced old social media posts after her involvement was revealed.

For fans who grew up quoting Donkey's jokes, rooting for Shrek and Fiona, and watching the films on repeat, the combination of familiar voices and new characters may be exactly what the franchise needs.

'Shrek 5' In Theaters June 2027

Could Lord Farquaad somehow make another appearance? What about Gingy, Pinocchio and the Three Little Pigs?

The studio hasn't revealed many details about the full cast or story, meaning there could still be plenty of surprises waiting when the film arrives.

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This story was originally published June 17, 2026 at 6:57 AM.