DreamWorks Animation has officially announced that Zendaya will join the cast of Shrek 5, taking on the role of Felicia, the teenage daughter of Shrek and Princess Fiona. The film is set to hit theaters on December 23, 2026, marking the 25th anniversary of the Shrek franchise.
Zendaya’s casting brings a fresh and modern touch to the beloved animated series, which has been a staple in popular culture since the release of the original Shrek in 2001. The new installment will feature returning voice actors Mike Myers as Shrek, Cameron Diaz as Fiona, and Eddie Murphy as Donkey, all of whom have been central to the franchise’s success.
Felicia, the character Zendaya will voice, is one of Shrek and Fiona’s triplets introduced in Shrek the Third (2007). In the upcoming film, she is expected to take on a more significant role, reflecting her journey as a teenage ogre navigating life with her famous parents. While details about the plot remain under wraps, it is anticipated that Shrek 5 will explore the evolving family dynamic, possibly setting the stage for a new generation of adventures in the swamp.
Zendaya’s casting follows her recent success in both film and television. Known for her performances in Euphoria, Dune, and the Spider-Man series, she has established herself as a versatile actress with a strong fan following. Her voice acting experience includes roles in animated films like Smallfoot (2018) and Duck Duck Goose (2018), making her a fitting choice for the role of Felicia.
The decision to bring back the original voice cast, along with the addition of Zendaya, signals DreamWorks’ commitment to maintaining the heart of the Shrek franchise while introducing new elements that appeal to both longtime fans and a younger audience. Eddie Murphy, who voices Donkey, recently confirmed in an interview that he has already recorded some of his lines for the film, hinting at a production timeline that is well underway.
Shrek 5 will be directed by Walt Dohrn and Conrad Vernon, both of whom have been involved with previous films in the franchise. Their experience with the Shrek universe suggests that the film will retain the humor, wit, and fairy tale twists that have made the series iconic.
The return of Shrek has been highly anticipated, with speculation about a sequel circulating for years. With Zendaya’s involvement, the film is set to introduce a dynamic new character while preserving the humor and charm that have defined the franchise. Fans can look forward to the return of the beloved ogre family when Shrek 5 arrives in theaters in December 2026.
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