Zendaya to Star as Felicia in "Shrek 5", Marking the Return of an Iconic Franchise

In an exciting update for fans of the beloved Shrek series, the prolific actress Zendaya has been announced as the newest addition to the cast of the much-anticipated "Shrek 5." Slated for release on December 23, 2026, the film is set to coincide with the 25th anniversary of the original Shrek movie, creating a perfect circle of nostalgia and innovation.

Zendaya will voice Felicia, the teenage daughter of Shrek and Fiona. Initially introduced as a triplet in "Shrek the Third," Felicia has grown and is poised to take a more central role in the upcoming film. The announcement was accompanied by a teaser trailer that showcased Felicia’s dynamic and spirited personality, hinting at the fresh energy Zendaya will bring to the role.

Zendaya's 'Shrek 5' Dress: A Green Nightmare or A Glamorous Fairy Tale? https://t.co/egBwBFOWbu

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This casting is particularly notable as Zendaya has openly expressed her fondness for the Shrek series, reinforcing her enthusiasm and connective bond with the franchise. With her impressive track record in both acting and voice-over work in films like "Space Jam: A New Legacy" and "Smallfoot," Zendaya is well-prepared to tackle this iconic role.

"Shrek 5" will not only see new additions but also the return of the original cast. Mike Myers will reprise his role as Shrek, with Cameron Diaz as Fiona and Eddie Murphy as Donkey, creating a sense of continuity and reunion that fans are eagerly anticipating. Notably, this marks Diaz's return to acting after a decade-long hiatus, bringing additional excitement around the project.

Under the direction of Shrek veterans Walt Dohrn and Conrad Vernon, the film promises to maintain the heart and humor of the original films while introducing new themes and characters that will appeal to both long-time fans and new viewers. Their previous work in the franchise and their understanding of its core elements suggest that "Shrek 5" will successfully balance nostalgia with fresh storytelling.

The Shrek franchise has historically been a giant at the box office, with an accumulated gross of over R60 billion worldwide. This enduring popularity highlights the series' widespread appeal and the high expectations for the upcoming film.

For South African audiences and international fans alike, "Shrek 5" offers an exciting new chapter filled with humor, adventure, and heart. With a story rumored to focus on passing the torch to a new generation, the film represents not just a continuation but a rebirth of a beloved series.

As the countdown to the release begins, all eyes will undoubtedly remain on "Shrek 5." With Zendaya's fresh addition and the return of cherished characters, the film is poised to be a standout in the cinematic landscape of 2026.