Netflix viewers are celebrating as the beloved Shrek franchise makes its long-awaited return to the streaming platform. The streaming giant has confirmed that all four mainline Shrek films will be available to stream again starting May 21, prompting fans to plan movie marathons of the timeless classic.
All Four Films Arrive This Week
Netflix has announced that the entire Shrek series, including the original film that first hit UK cinemas on June 29, 2001, will be added back to its library. The sequels Shrek 2, Shrek 3, and Shrek Forever After will also be available on the same day. However, the company has not yet confirmed whether the spin-off Puss in Boots will be included.
In a post on X, the Netflix UK account wrote: "The wait is ogre. All four Shrek films return to Netflix on 21 May." This is not the first time the films have streamed on Netflix, but their previous removal caused outcry among fans. They were last removed from the service in late 2023.
Currently, the films are available on Prime Video, but a warning indicates they will be removed from that platform in approximately 36 hours. It appears that as they leave Prime Video, they will simultaneously become available on Netflix, making Netflix the only streaming home for the foreseeable future.
A Beloved Franchise
Shrek was both a commercial and critical success upon its release. It grossed nearly $500 million worldwide against a $60 million budget and holds an 88% score on Rotten Tomatoes. The story follows an ogre named Shrek whose solitude is disrupted by fairy tale characters banished by the evil Lord Farquaad. Shrek makes a deal to rescue Princess Fiona, only to discover her deep, dark secret.
The film's parody of classic fairy tales and its all-star cast—including Mike Myers as Shrek, Eddie Murphy as Donkey, Cameron Diaz as Princess Fiona, and John Lithgow as Lord Farquaad—won over audiences. Sequels added stars like Antonio Banderas, Julie Andrews, Jennifer Saunders, Justin Timberlake, John Krasinski, Amy Poehler, and Jon Hamm. A fifth film is expected in 2027.
Fans have expressed their excitement online. One called Shrek "an absolutely timeless classic," while another said it is "one of the best movie franchises ever." A third fan wrote: "Just rewatched Shrek and it's still pure magic. The humour, the heart, the music all click perfectly. The animation may be over 20 years old, but it still feels fresh and full of personality." Another added: "Once a day I think of this movie and its sequels. As a child it was my go-to movie and as an adult still is. 10/10."
Shrek, Shrek 2, Shrek 3, and Shrek Forever After will stream on Netflix from May 21.
