It’s been quite a lengthy hiatus since the lovable green ogre Shrek last graced the silver screen with his whimsical presence, but it seems that fans might not have to wait much longer for the next chapter in the iconic franchise. The Shrek universe, which has captivated audiences since the early 2000s, is reportedly on the cusp of welcoming its fifth installment. This potential revival has been sparked by none other than Chris Meledandri, the visionary founder of Illumination and a key partner to DreamWorks Animation.
In an interview with Variety that took place back in April, Meledandri hinted at his ambitious plan to breathe new life into the world of Shrek. His idea involves not only rebooting the beloved series but also retaining its distinctive charm by bringing back the original voice cast. Yes, you read that right – Mike Myers as the titular Shrek, Cameron Diaz as the spirited Fiona, and the inimitable Eddie Murphy as the irrepressibly entertaining Donkey could soon grace our screens once again.
“We anticipate the cast coming back. Talks are starting now, and every indication that we’ve gotten is there’s tremendous enthusiasm on behalf of the actors to return,” Meledandri divulged, sparking a whirlwind of speculation and excitement among fans. While formal agreements have yet to be solidified, the fervent discussions are in full swing. It’s an exhilarating prospect, given the long-standing love that audiences have for these characters and their endearing quirks.
The potential decision to reassemble the original cast isn’t unfounded. After all, the Shrek franchise has been a resounding success since its inception. A series of six films, including “Shrek” (2001), “Shrek 2” (2004), “Shrek the Third” (2007), “Shrek Forever After” (2010), and spinoffs “Puss in Boots” (2011) and “Puss in Boots: The Last Wish” (2022), has amassed a staggering total of $3.9 billion in worldwide box office earnings, according to The Numbers. This commercial triumph, combined with the deep connection fans have formed with these characters over the years, undoubtedly fuels the eagerness to continue the tale.
Eddie Murphy, who lends his voice to the uproariously funny Donkey, fanned the flames of anticipation earlier this year. In an interview with Etalk, he expressed his unreserved enthusiasm for reprising his role: “I’d absolutely be open. If they ever came with another Shrek, I’d do it in two seconds. I love Donkey.” His genuine affection for the character and the franchise resonated strongly with fans, adding another layer of excitement to the possible return of the Shrek saga.
Mike Myers, the voice behind Shrek himself, echoed Murphy’s sentiment in a 2022 GQ interview, saying, “If I had to do one Shrek a year I’d be thrilled.” His candid enthusiasm and the fact that he is still drawn to the character even after all these years highlight the profound impact Shrek has had on both the actors and the audience.
It’s not just the cast that’s aligning the stars for a potential “Shrek 5.” Chris Meledandri’s response to Murphy’s comments underscored the actors’ enduring connection with their roles and the franchise’s creative spirit. He described Murphy’s eagerness as “evidence of his strong enthusiasm for a role that he so brilliantly inhabited and really created alongside the artists at DreamWorks. I found that comment to be very exciting,” further igniting anticipation for what lies ahead.
With the series’ unparalleled track record and the resounding enthusiasm from its original cast, the stage is seemingly set for another enchanting escapade in the world of Shrek. As discussions and negotiations continue, fans are left eagerly awaiting the moment they can once again embark on a fairy tale journey alongside Shrek, Fiona, Donkey, Puss in Boots, and the array of charming characters that have etched themselves into the collective imagination. Until that day arrives, we can almost hear the chorus: “Alexa, play ‘I’m a Believer’.”
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Snow White, Cinderella, Aurora, Ariel, Belle