In a surprise twist for the franchise, Zendaya is officially cast to play Shrek and Fiona’s daughter in Shrek 5. It is by far one of the biggest animated franchises that will catapult to new heights with Zendaya joining this ensemble whose members include Mike Myers as Shrek, Cameron Diaz as Fiona, and Eddie Murphy as Donkey. The first film at the trailer stage has already dropped, orchestrating hype from the fandom even while revealing little else about its plot.
Dream Casting for Zendaya
For the longtime Shrek fan, the casting is indeed a dream casting, for Zendaya. She tweeted back in 2017, “I watch Shrek too often in my adulthood,” with DreamWorks Animation having quite a sense of humor when, once her casting was confirmed, they reposted her earlier tweet and remarked, “This aged well.” Her love for the franchise adds a personal flavor to her character of the daughter of Shrek and Fiona, ensuring to instill a new dynamic into the endearing series.
Release Date
Initially slated for release in July 2026, DreamWorks has since confirmed a December 23, 2026 release for Shrek 5, in time for the holiday season. Walt Dohrn, who has worked long and hard on the franchise, having worked on Shrek 2, Shrek the Third, and Shrek Forever After, will be directing; he is joined by co-director Brad Ableson, bringing some new energy to this most beloved franchise.
Zendaya has major other commitments.
Besides Shrek 5, Zendaya is currently busy with other blockbusters including Dune: Messiah, Euphoria Season 3, and Christopher Nolan’s The Odyssey. Anticipations are high on what she will contribute to the screen and to the swamp.
