Summary
Mike Myers is already returning forShrek 5, but the actor needs to come back for two other sequels as well. After a 14-year wait,Dreamworks finally announced that the belovedShrekfranchise will continue, withShrek 5’s release dateset for 2026. The announcement confirmed thatShrek 5would feature three of its original lead stars: Eddie Murphy as Donkey, Cameron Diaz as Fiona, and Mike Myers as the titular Shrek.
With the long-awaitedShreksequel on the horizon, Myers is back in the pop culture conversation. The versatile actor came to prominence as a cast member onSaturday Night Live,and his characters remain some of the sketch show’s most iconic. His return totheShrekfranchisesparks hopes for him to revisit some of his other classic roles and reignite his status as a comedy legend.
Every Mike Myers Movie Ranked From Worst To Best
Comedian and former SNL star Mike Myers has had an extensive film career, but which films are his best? Check out our ranking of every film he’s made.
Mike Myers Still Needs Austin Powers 4 & Wayne’s World 3
Myers Is In A Good Position To Return To These Beloved Characters
Mike Myers' film and television back catalog is an odd combination of beloved classics and widely-panned critical flops. His most recent work was the Netflix limited seriesThe Pentaverate, which received overwhelmingly negative reviews and has a 27% rating onRotten Tomatoes. However,Myers created some of the most recognizable characters of the 1990s and 2000s, first with Wayne Campbell ofWayne’s Worldand its sequel and then with Austin Powers.
Myers developed hisWayne’s Worldcharacter on Canadian television before making it a recurringSaturday Night Livesketch. He and hisSNLco-star Dana Carvey play best friends and heavy metal fans who host a cable access television show. The 1992 film was a massive hit, and its 1993 sequel was far from a flop.
Wayne’s Worldis the highest-grossing film based on aSaturday Night Livesketch.
Likewise, theAustin Powersfranchise was a huge success story for Myers. The trilogy of films was a sharp parody of 1960s spy films, poking fun at the genre’s sexism, blatant sexual innuendo, and one-note stock characters.There have been rumors of a fourthAustin Powersfilm since 2005, with Myers and the franchise’s director, Jay Roach, stating they would be open to returning to the series. Considering the tepid response to his recent work, now may be the perfect time for Myers to revisit bothWayne’sWorldandAustin Powers.
Austin Powers & Wayne’s World Need Another Sequel More Than Shrek Does
Contemporary Austin Powers & Wayne’s World Movies Would Be Worth Watching
In many ways,the world has moved on from theShrekuniverse. Animation styles have evolved since the lastShrekfilm, and storytelling expectations have shifted. Without a strong script, the film could ultimately fall flat. While theShrekmovies will always remain cherished family favorites, today’s generation of kids have many more entertainment options compared to the ’00s. In this modern media landscape,Shrek 5faces some serious competition, and nostalgia alone may not be enough for this film to succeed.
However, bothAustin PowersandWayne’s Worldsequels have the potential to tell interesting stories about contemporary life while tapping into their inherent nostalgia. With a fresh take on their respective genres,Myers could take these characters in new directions that reflect the world and the changing times. For example, the global political climate could provide a fascinating backdrop to a newAustin Powersmovie. Similarly, the current era of social media and video content makes now an ideal time to revive the Wayne and Garth characters.
Shrek 5 Can Kickstart A Mike Myers Career Renaissance
Like His Co-Stars, Myers Should Leverage The Renewed Interest To Revive His Career
Myers hasn’t always made the best decisions for his career, but the buzz surroundingShrek 5could be the energy Myers needs to kickstart his career renaissance. With attention back on Myers, now is the perfect time to reestablish his presence in Hollywood and remind audiences of his unique comedic genius.
Some of Myers' other Shrek co-stars have recently started reviving their profiles.Like Myers, Murphy has had his career highs and lows. However, the actor’s generally positive reviews for Netflix’sBeverly Hills Cop: Axel Fhighlight how returning to familiar characters can help reignite interest and reconnect with audiences. Diaz is also planning her comeback. After taking a hiatus from acting in 2014, the actress is set to star in the upcoming Netflix comedy,Back in Action. Now, it’s Myers' turn to reclaim the spotlight.
With his return toShrek 5, Myers has the opportunity to carefully select projects that lean into his strengths and resonate with a new generation of viewers. He can solidify his legacy and step into a second act for his career. Revisiting Wayne Campbell and Austin Powers in new sequels would be a good start and provide a timely reminder of why Myers became a household name.
