Cameron Diaz Was ‘Always All-In’ as “Shrek”’s Fiona: See Rare Behind-the-Scenes Footage 25 Years Later (Exclusive)

As the beloved animated classic *Shrek* celebrates its 25th anniversary, fans can look forward to the release of a special edition of the film, which will become available on 3 November. This newly remastered version will feature exclusive bonus content, including behind-the-scenes footage that explores the creation of the film and the iconic character of Princess Fiona, voiced by Cameron Diaz.

In a special feature, entitled “Origin of an Ogre,” the directors of *Shrek*, Andrew Adamson and Vicky Jenson, offer insights into how Diaz brought Fiona to life. The clip, which has been made available exclusively to PEOPLE, showcases the creative process behind the animated film, shedding light on Diaz’s active involvement in crafting the character. According to Jenson, Diaz was “always all-in” during recording sessions, perfectly capturing the essence of the princess while also bringing her own unique flair.

Cameron Diaz’s portrayal of Princess Fiona has remained a defining aspect of the *Shrek* franchise. Diaz, now 54, not only voiced Fiona in the original film but has reprised the role in three sequels and is set to return in the upcoming *Shrek 5*. In the featurette, Jenson describes how much fun it was working with Diaz, praising her ability to balance her goofy nature with a grounded performance.

The bonus content also includes behind-the-scenes footage of Diaz recording some of her most memorable lines. Viewers can witness the energy she brought into the booth, with images of her jumping up and down and responding passionately as she voiced Fiona. Adamson recalls how Diaz’s physicality and expressions influenced the character’s development, significantly altering how Fiona appeared on screen, particularly how her smile and movements were animated.

Interestingly, designing Fiona presented a considerable challenge for the animators. Adamson revealed that she was the most difficult character to create, primarily due to the need to strike a delicate balance between realism and animation. He explains that early designs veered too close to the ‘uncanny valley’, where characters appear almost human but not quite. This issue required extensive experimentation during the computer animation phase to achieve a style that did justice to Fiona’s character.

The 25th anniversary edition promises to deliver an impressive package of 30 minutes of new bonus features. In addition to the “Origin of an Ogre” segment, the film will be presented in 4K Ultra HD format, enhanced with Dolby Vision and Dolby Atmos technology. Fans will also have the option to purchase a Limited Edition Steelbook of this remastered classic.

The original *Shrek* film, which premiered on 22 April 2001, not only became a significant cultural phenomenon but also generated substantial financial success, collectively grossing over $1.6 billion across its six films, including three sequels and two *Puss in Boots* spin-offs.

As anticipation builds towards *Shrek 5*, which is scheduled for release on 30 June 2027, fans are eager to see what new adventures await. While specific plot details have yet to be revealed, a teaser trailer suggests that Shrek, Fiona, and their teenage sons will embark on a journey to the “big city,” or Further, Further Away.

As the franchise continues to grow, the legacy of Princess Fiona remains strong, thanks in part to Cameron Diaz’s memorable performance. The upcoming anniversary edition not only pays homage to a beloved character but also highlights the collaborative spirit that brought *Shrek* to life. As its characters and stories continue to resonate with audiences, *Shrek* demonstrates how timeless storytelling and humour can create lasting connections across generations.