Shrek is a green humanoid ogre once living alone with a resentment towards those who judged him by appearance. He would open up after meeting his best friend Donkey and wife Fiona, having a new perspective on society's views towards ogres. This would lead Shrek to become heir to the kingdom of Far Far Away, and raise three children.
He was originally created by American author William Steig in his 1990 picture book, Shrek!. Shrek was originally voiced by Chris Farley, but due to his death in 1997, the role was given to Mike Myers. In the musical, Shrek was played principally by Brian D'Arcy James.