As of January 10, 2025, it’s been confirmed that the DreamWork’s animation veteran Conrad Vernon will be returning to the studio to direct Shrek 5 with Walt Dohrn. The upcoming installment of the franchise is set for release on December 23, 2026, just in time for its 25th Anniversary.
Walt Dohrn last contributed to the Trolls franchise as a director for multiple installments, including Trolls Band Together, Trolls World Tour, and Trolls. Previously he had lent his voice to the character of Rumpelstiltskin in Shrek Forever After, and was the film’s Head of Story.
Recently, Conrad Vernon served as the director of The Addams Family 2 and The Addams Family, with previous directing credits including Monsters Vs. Aliens and Madagascar 3: Europe’s Most Wanted. He additionally was a directing team member for the Academy Award nominated film Shrek 2. Alongside Walt Dohrn, he has also lent his voice to the Shrek Universe, bringing to life the iconic Gingerbread Man.
Also returning to the franchise is Gina Shay as the film’s producer, previously having worked on Shrek Forever After and the Trolls franchise. Illumination CEO Chris Meledandri has joined the team as a producer too, bringing his experience since contributing to the Despicable Me, Minions, The Super Mario Bros. Movie, Sing, and Secret Life of Pets films. Brad Ableson, known for Minions: The Rise of Gru and The Simpsons, will be co-directing for Shrek 5 as well.
Mike Myers, Eddie Murphy, and Cameron Diaz are once again reprising their roles of Shrek, Donkey, and Fiona, the beloved faces of the franchise. With its returning talent-packed cast and creative team, Shrek 5 is shaping up to be one of the most highly anticipated films of 2026.
