How Mike Myers Changed Shrek Forever (Ep. 124)

Jim Hill and Eric Hersey continue the story of Shrek, following the difficult decisions DreamWorks faced after the death of original star Chris Farley. Jim explains how Mike Myers came aboard and why a new voice for the ogre also led to a change for Princess Fiona. They also discuss Blumhouse joining Universal’s Horror Make-Up Show, lower prices at Horror Unleashed, and holiday plans on both coasts. Plus, a look at the early attempt to bring Wicked to the screen.

NEWS

• A new Glinda novel sparks a look back at Demi Moore’s early Wicked movie plans and the creative talent involved.
• Universal’s Horror Make-Up Show prepares for a Blumhouse reimagining, raising questions about the balance between modern scares and classic monster history.
• Eric rounds up Universal Orlando refurbishments and clarifies that Animal Actors on Location remains open until its announced November closure.
• Horror Unleashed lowers selected Las Vegas ticket prices for November and December, while Jim and Eric check in on plans for Chicago.
• Hollywood adds Merry Minions to its holiday lineup, and a licensing report hints at Snoggletog in Epic Universe’s Isle of Berk; the hosts caution that Orlando’s plans still need official confirmation.

FEATURE

• DreamWorks considers ways to finish Chris Farley’s version of Shrek before ultimately recasting the lead role.
• Jim compares the challenge with other productions that had to continue after losing a performer, including The Hunchback of Notre Dame and Furious 7.
• A chance meeting at the Saving Private Ryan premiere brings Mike Myers into Shrek’s story, changing the ogre’s personality and the balance of the cast.
• Cameron Diaz replaces Janeane Garofalo as Fiona, and Shrek’s eventual success sets up a sequel and a future in Universal’s theme parks.

HOSTS

• Jim Hill - X/Twitter: @JimHillMedia | Instagram: @JimHillMedia | jimhillmedia.com
• Eric Hersey - X/Twitter: @erichersey | Instagram: @erichersey | strongmindedagency.com

FOLLOW

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SUPPORT

Support the show and access bonus episodes and additional content at https://www.patreon.com/jimhillmedia.

PRODUCTION CREDITS

Edited by Dave Grey
Produced by Eric Hersey - https://strongmindedagency.com

SPONSOR

Planning a Universal getaway? The travel professionals at Be Our Guest Vacations can work with you one on one to find the right hotel, park admission, and extras for your budget, priorities, and travel style. Mention that Eric and Jim at the Epic Universal Podcast sent you.

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Jim Hill and Eric Hersey explore how Shrek’s recasting reshaped the film, plus Universal’s horror attractions, refurbishments, and holiday plans.

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