The original Shrek movie came out on May 18, 2001, in the United States.

Quick Scoop

  • Theatrical release (US): May 18, 2001.
  • It kicked off the now-huge Shrek franchise, which went on to have multiple sequels and spin‑offs.
  • A fifth mainline film, often called Shrek 5 , is currently planned for release in June 2027, about 26 years after the original.

In other words, Shrek officially left the swamp and hit cinemas in spring 2001.

TL;DR: When did Shrek come out? May 18, 2001.

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