There are some iconic movie roles that are so perfectly cast, it’s hard to imagine anyone else bringing the character to life. Mike Myers as the lovable green ogre Shrek is one such example. His distinct, now legendary, performance shaped the entire Shrek franchise and is forever etched in the minds of fans. But what if Myers wasn’t the one to voice Shrek? What if another actor, known for his larger-than-life comedic presence, had taken the role instead?

Before Mike Myers became the face (or rather the voice) of Shrek, Chris Farley, the beloved comedian and Saturday Night Live alum, was originally cast as the green ogre. Farley’s untimely death, however, meant that fans never got to hear his version of Shrek—despite the fact that he had already recorded an impressive 85% of the film’s dialogue. The story behind this casting change is a tragic and heartbreaking one, shedding light on both Farley’s incredible talent and the unforeseen challenges the filmmakers faced during the making of Shrek.

It's inconceivable to think of anyone else playing Shrek, but that almost happened (Dreamworks)

Chris Farley: A Comedy Icon Taken Too Soon

Chris Farley was a larger-than-life figure in the world of comedy, known for his physical humor, over-the-top antics, and heartfelt moments. His legacy is cemented in the hearts of many through his roles in Tommy Boy and Black Sheep, as well as his unforgettable sketches on SNL. Farley’s ability to blend slapstick humor with genuine emotion made him a beloved figure, and he was a trailblazer for 90s comedy. His comedic timing and improvisational skills were unmatched, and he quickly became a fan favorite.

But tragically, Farley’s life was cut short. In 1997, at the age of just 33, Farley died of a drug overdose, a combination of cocaine and morphine. His death sent shockwaves through the entertainment world, and especially through his comedy peers, who had seen him as a shining star destined for even greater heights.

Chris Farley died at 33 (Steve Granitz Archive 1/WireImage via Getty Images)

At the time of his passing, Farley had already been cast as the voice of Shrek in the animated film. In fact, he had completed most of his lines for the film—reportedly around 85%—before his death. Farley’s version of Shrek was reportedly quite different from Myers’ iconic take. Instead of adopting a Scottish accent, Farley’s Shrek was much closer to his own voice, filled with warmth and humor. The world would never get to hear this rendition of the character, but the footage that remains shows just how distinctive his portrayal would have been.

The Change in Direction: Mike Myers Steps In

After Farley’s untimely death, DreamWorks was faced with a difficult decision: how to complete the project and find a new voice for the titular character. Enter Mike Myers, who was cast to take over the role of Shrek. Interestingly, Myers was unaware that he was essentially replacing Farley. In a revealing interview with Vulture, Myers recalled his initial confusion when he first saw a clay maquette of Shrek, which resembled Farley.

“I asked, ‘Guys, was this offered to Chris Farley and then he died?’ Everyone looked at their shoes,” Myers said. “I said, ‘No, but seriously, really?’ And then they finally admitted it was true.”

Myers went on to put his own spin on the role, famously deciding to use a Scottish accent for Shrek—a choice that would become synonymous with the character. This change ultimately helped define Shrek’s personality and made him even more endearing to audiences. Myers’ take on Shrek was far from a direct copy of Farley’s, but it was clear that the character still retained the heart and humor that Farley had initially infused into the role.

Test Footage: What Could Have Been

While Myers’ version of Shrek became the one that audiences know and love, there is still a sense of “what could have been” when looking back at the test footage of Farley voicing the character. Some of this test footage, featuring Farley’s lines alongside Eddie Murphy’s character Donkey, has been released, giving fans a glimpse into how the film might have sounded had Farley remained in the role.

The test footage is both fascinating and bittersweet. Farley’s version of Shrek seems to have been more grounded and warmer, with his trademark comedic energy evident in his delivery. It’s hard not to wonder how the dynamic between Farley and Murphy’s Donkey would have played out on the big screen. Despite the tragedy, the footage serves as a poignant reminder of Farley’s immense talent and the potential he had in taking on a character that would go on to become an iconic figure in animated film.

Farley’s Brother Speaks Out: The Attempt to Complete the Film

When Farley passed away, DreamWorks was faced with the dilemma of how to finish recording the film, as Farley had only a few lines left to record. The studio reportedly considered asking Farley’s brother, John Farley, to complete his lines. However, John ultimately declined to take on the role, citing that he wasn’t able to replicate his brother’s voice and style in the same way.

In the end, the decision was made to recast the role entirely, with Mike Myers stepping in. This transition was not an easy one, as Farley’s presence had loomed large over the project. The production team had to deal with not only the grief of losing a talented comedian but also the challenge of recasting such an iconic role with someone who could bring something unique to the character. Myers, in the end, succeeded in creating a version of Shrek that resonated with audiences worldwide.

Both Mike Myers and Chris Farley appeared on SNL together (Mitchell Gerber/Corbis/VCG via Getty Images)

The Legacy of Chris Farley

Farley’s sudden death left a hole in the comedy world that was never fully filled. His friends and colleagues, including Adam Sandler and David Spade, have often spoken about the loss of their close friend and comedic partner. Sandler, in particular, paid tribute to Farley in his 2018 Netflix special Adam Sandler: 100% Fresh, where he performed a song about Farley’s impact on their lives and careers. In the song, Sandler fondly recalls the laughter and joy Farley brought to their lives, and the song ends with a wish that Farley were still around to share in the moments they would have had together.

Chris Rock, another friend of Farley’s, also reflected on his untimely passing during the 25th anniversary of his death. “No one was competing with Farley,” Rock said. “He was that level of actor, that level of presence. It’s just sad to think, ‘Wow, what would that guy have done?’”

Farley’s influence on the world of comedy is undeniable, and his legacy continues to inspire new generations of comedians. His work on SNL, as well as his films, remains a testament to his talent and the joy he brought to the screen.

Farley's best friend David Spade along with Chris Rock and Chris Farley (KMazur via Getty Images)

A Shrek for the Ages: Mike Myers and the Iconic Ogre

While the world will never know what Farley’s Shrek would have been like, Mike Myers’ portrayal of the character became just as iconic in its own right. Myers not only captured Shrek’s lovable, gruff exterior but also his heart and vulnerability. The decision to give Shrek a Scottish accent became one of the most recognizable elements of the character, and the Shrek franchise went on to become one of the most successful animated series in film history.

Since his first appearance in 2001, Myers has voiced Shrek in four films, with a fifth Shrek movie currently in the works and slated for release in 2026. Myers’ contribution to the character has been immense, and he remains one of the key figures in the ongoing legacy of Shrek.

A Life Cut Short and a Role Recast

The story of Chris Farley’s role in Shrek is a tragic one, as it highlights both the loss of a comedic legend and the shift in creative direction that the filmmakers had to make in light of his death. While we’ll never get to hear Farley’s version of Shrek, the test footage and the memories of his friends remind us of the incredible talent he had. The Shrek films, now beloved by millions, will forever carry the weight of what might have been—had Farley not been taken from us so soon.

Chris Farley may have been replaced as the voice of Shrek, but his legacy as one of the greatest comedians of his time endures. And though his time with us was brief, his impact continues to inspire and bring joy to those who remember his unique brand of humor.