John Lithgow,Shrek’s Lord Farquaad, Would ‘Say Yes in a Minute’ If Asked to Join Upcoming 5th Movie (Exclusive)

Mar. 15, 2025

John Lithgow; Lord Farquaad in ‘Shrek’.Photo:Gilbert Flores/Variety via Getty; Paramount/Kobal/Shutterstock

Gilbert Flores/Variety via Getty; Paramount/Kobal/Shutterstock

John Lithgowwould happily step into Lord Farquaad’s boots again.

In the new issue of PEOPLE, the 79-year-old actor says he would “say yes in a minute” to joining the voice cast for the upcomingShrek 5movie to reprise his role as the ruthless ruler of the fairytale kingdom of Duloc.

Dreamworks Llc/Kobal/Shutterstock

As for whether Farquaad could make some kind of return — perhaps in flashbacks — the six-time Emmy winner says “they haven’t approached me” about the latest installment in the blockbuster animated film franchise.

“I know nothing about it and no, I’m not a part of it,” he adds ofShrek 5, which is slated to be released in July 2026.

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“I am in a fabulous animated film,” Lithgow says of the project, “in the company ofJavier BardemandNicole KidmanandNathan Lane— all sorts of wonderful voices.”

The film also featuresTituss BurgessandJenifer Lewis.

John Lithgow in February 2024.Frazer Harrison/Getty

Frazer Harrison/Getty

Lithgow’s latest non-animated film role, in the Edward Berger-directedConclave, finds the two-time Oscar nominee delving into the secretive world of the Vatican. The drama, which also starsRalph Fiennes,Stanley TucciandIsabella Rosselini, centers on the Catholic Cardinals who must elect a new Supreme Pontiff when the pope dies.

Lithgow tells PEOPLE he relished being part of such a talented “ensemble of actors” while filming in Rome.

“They were so superb, and all of us had the greatest scenes to play," he explains. “We took turns having our moment, and yet it all wove together so beautifully.”

“It’s great, great storytelling, so it’s wonderful to be a part of that,” he adds.

Conclavewas released in theaters nationwide on Oct. 25.

source: people.com