Fans of the beloved animated franchise Shrek will have to wait a bit longer for the fifth installment, as Universal Pictures has postponed its release to December 23, 2026.

Initially slated to hit theaters on July 1, 2026, the delay has pushed the much-anticipated sequel back by nearly six months.

While the production team has not disclosed the reason behind this decision, the new release date positions the film during the lucrative holiday season.

Directed by Walt Dohrn, who previously contributed as a writer and artist to Shrek 2 and Shrek the Third, the upcoming film promises to revive the magic of the franchise.

Eddie Murphy and Cameron Diaz are set to return as Donkey and Princess Fiona, respectively, further fueling anticipation among fans.

The Shrek franchise, based on William Steig’s children’s book, has remained a cultural touchstone since the release of its first installment in 2001. The fifth film will mark a 16-year gap since Shrek Forever After (2010), which was previously thought to be the conclusion of the series.

Eddie Murphy, in a recent interview with Collider, confirmed the project’s progress. “We started doing Shrek four or five months ago. I recorded the first act, and we’ll be finishing it up this year,” shared the 63-year-old comedian.

The delay has left fans eager to see how the filmmakers will continue the story of Shrek, Fiona, and their lovable companions. For now, audiences will have to wait patiently to revisit the enchanting world of Far Far Away this December.