The Shrek
franchise, with its irreverent humor and beloved characters, has been a cultural staple since its 2001 debut. Fans worldwide celebrated its sequels, but in early 2024, Netflix removed Shrek
and its follow-ups from its US catalog as part of a broader content overhaul. Titles like The Matrix
trilogy also vanished, sparking disappointment among subscribers. While the ogre’s absence left a void, recent developments have reignited hope and questions about his streaming future.
Now there is a teaser for the fifth movie, but US and UK fans are still asking: where IS Shrek?
Netflix’s Shrek revival, but not for the US?
Netflix UK and Ireland sparked excitement recently by announcing on X that Shrek
, Shrek 2,
and Shrek The Third
were now available in their regions. The post included a playful nod to Donkey’s iconic “waffles”
line, but Netflix US remained silent. No official updates confirmed a stateside return, leaving American fans to seek alternatives.
Shrek, Shrek 2 and Shrek The Third are now on @NetflixUK! 💚
— Netflix UK & Ireland (@NetflixUK) February 27, 2025
For now, Peacock streams the first three Shrek
films, while Shrek Forever After
is on Hulu. Shrek The Third
also lingers on HBO Max. The fragmented availability highlighted licensing complexities, but Universal’s partnership with Peacock suggests strategic exclusivity. With no timeline for Netflix US, ogre enthusiasts must rely on rival platforms for now.
Read More: 10 Best Family Films on Netflix To Watch for A Fun Time
Could the new Shrek
movie change Netflix’s plans? The answer is murkier than a swamp.
The Shrek
5 teaser, released recently on YouTube, offered a glimpse of an older Shrek and Fiona parenting their teenage daughter, alongside a brief return of Pinocchio. Universal confirmed Zendaya would voice the ogre couple’s daughter, amid the anticipation of her upcoming Homer epic adaptation alongside Tom Holland
. The clip ended with a title card announcing a Christmas 2026 theatrical release, but no mention of streaming.
Far, Far Away’s finest are coming. pic.twitter.com/7qn8FNIBT6
— Shrek (@Shrek) February 27, 2025
Since Shrek
5 is slated for a Christmas 2026 theatrical release, a Netflix debut appears unlikely soon. Universal’s animated films, like Puss in Boots: The Last Wish
, historically premiered on Peacock post-theater due to corporate ties. While Netflix could bid for streaming rights, its 2024 removal of the original Shrek
trilogy weakens negotiations. The lack of recent Netflix-Universal deals further clouds prospects. With more than a year until release, streaming trends may shift, but as of now, the ogre’s digital future remains as unpredictable.
Read More: Must-See Netflix Movies: 12 Originals That Won Big at the Oscar
Missed Shrek
on Netflix? Share your go-to streaming platform for ogre adventures below!
