Python Idle 'joins Shrek 3 cast'

The Phantom

Former Monty Python star Eric Idle has joined the cast of the next Shrek film, according to the Hollywood Reporter.

The British comic will play Merlin the magician in Shrek the Third, due to be released in the UK next June.

Fellow Python John Cleese will reprise his role as King Harold in the animated feature, while Ian McShane will provide the voice of Captain Hook.

Mike Myers, Eddie Murphy and Cameron Diaz will also return for the third film in the popular cartoon franchise.

Other British stars lending their vocal talents to the production are Rupert Everett and Dame Julie Andrews.

As previously announced, Diaz's partner Justin Timberlake will appear as Artie, King Harold's rebellious nephew.

Fairytale coup

In Shrek the Third, the green ogre goes in search of the rightful heir to the throne of the fairy-tale kingdom Far Far Away.

In his absence, his bride Princess Fiona holds off a coup with the help of Cinderella, Sleeping Beauty, Snow White and Rapunzel.

The original Shrek film, released in 2001, won the first Academy Award for best animated feature film.

According to producers DreamWorks, its 2004 sequel is the highest-grossing animated movie to date.

Necro

I saw the first two. Both pretty damn good...