The highly anticipated Shrek 5 has reportedly had its release date pushed back, with Universal Pictures announcing a new premiere date of December 23, 2026.

Shrek 5 Delayed

While this news has stirred excitement among fans, rumors are circulating on social media, particularly on TikTok, suggesting that the delay is linked to backlash over the movie’s animation style.

According to these claims, the updated animation in the first trailer—released just this past week—left fans feeling confused and disappointed, with some even saying they “didn’t recognize Shrek” due to the changes in his look.

Shrek 5 Trailer

The trailer’s updated animation, which features more refined and modernized visuals, has been a point of contention for some longtime fans of the franchise, who feel the new style doesn’t capture the essence of the beloved characters. On TikTok, users have been vocal about how different Shrek and the gang look, with some even questioning if the animation was too far removed from the original aesthetic that made the films so iconic.

Shrek 5 Release Date

However, it’s important to note that there is no official confirmation from Universal Pictures linking the release delay to this supposed backlash. Apparently, the film was previously set for release on July 1, 2026. However, it has since been delayed to its current release date with Illumination’s Minions 3 taking over the original release date. While speculation runs wild, especially on platforms like TikTok, fans will have to wait until more concrete details are revealed.

For now, Shrek 5 remains one of the most hotly debated and anticipated films in the works, with fans eager to see where the franchise goes next, regardless of the animation changes. Despite the delay, it’s clear that Shrek 5 has sparked plenty of conversation online.

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Published by HOLR Magazine

Image Credit: @shrek Instagram