Eric Idle has joined the cast of the next Shrek film.

The former Monty Python star will play Merlin the magician in Shrek the Third.

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

Mike Myers, Eddie Murphy and Cameron Diaz will also return for the third film and Justin Timberlake will appear as Artie, King Harold's rebellious nephew.

Shrek goes in search of the rightful heir to the throne of the Far Far Away kingdom.

The film is due to be released next June reports The Hollywood Reporter.

Source: Press Release