DreamWorks Animation has released the first trailer for Shrek 5, unveiling a new kingdom setting and reigniting excitement among fans for the long-awaited sequel.
The one-minute-32-second trailer, released on Tuesday, shows Shrek, Fiona, Donkey and their family embarking on a journey to a new location described as the kingdom of Far Far Away, marking a fresh chapter in the franchise.
New setting revealed in Shrek universe
The trailer highlights a new storyline direction for the animated series, with Shrek and his companions venturing beyond their familiar swamp surroundings into expanded fantasy landscapes.
While the footage offers a glimpse of returning characters, fans quickly noticed the absence of several previously announced cast members.
Zendaya’s character missing from trailer
Actor Zendaya, who was previously announced as part of the Shrek 5 cast, does not appear in the newly released trailer.
Zendaya was expected to voice Felicia, the teenage daughter of Shrek and Fiona, according to earlier promotional material released last year.
Her absence from the trailer prompted immediate speculation and discussion across social media platforms, with many fans questioning whether the character has been removed or simply withheld from early footage.
Fan reactions highlight confusion and excitement
Online reactions were mixed, with many viewers expressing excitement about the franchise’s return while also asking for clarification about the cast lineup.
“Okay, so where’d Zendaya go?” one user commented, reflecting widespread curiosity about the missing character.
Others focused on regional voice casting concerns, particularly in Latin America, where long-standing voice actor contributions remain an important part of the franchise’s identity.
Release date confirmed for 2027
Despite questions surrounding the cast, Shrek 5 remains scheduled for theatrical release in the United States on June 30, 2027.
The film marks the return of DreamWorks’ flagship animated franchise more than a decade after the previous instalment, continuing the story of Shrek and his family in a new adventure.
DreamWorks has not yet addressed the absence of Zendaya’s character from the trailer, leaving fans to await further updates as marketing for the film continues.