disney princess that starts with f

Fairytale Favorites: Forget-Me-Not Disney Princesses

By Kevin WhiteJanuary 18, 2026

While many Disney Princesses are instantly recognizable and celebrated around the world, there's one that's often overlooked despite her significant impact on Disney animated history. She's the one who starts with the letter 'F' - Princess Fiona from the "Shrek" franchise.

Princess Fiona wasn't your average Disney Princess. She was meant to be the damsel in distress, so much so that her tower was even built into the story. However, she defied the conventional princess archetype, transcending her role and proving that a princess could be strong, independent, and even turn into an ogre.

princess Fiona's Unique Origin Story

Fiona's tale begins in Shanbara, a land ruled by King Farquaad, who believed he could gain power by marrying a princess. With his short stature, he was determined to find a wife who was even shorter, leading to his obsession with Fiona. Unbeknownst to him, Fiona was cursed to turn into an ogre at night.

King Farquaad kidnapped Fiona and locked her in a tower, intending to marry her. However, before he could, Rumpelstiltskin tricked him, causing Farquaad to kiss Donkey instead of Fiona, reversing the curse. This unexpected turn of events paved the way for Fiona's unique journey.

Embracing Her Ogre Side

After being freed by Shrek and Donkey, Fiona was conflicted about embracing her ogre side. She believed that she could only be loved if she was a pretty princess, not an ogre. However, she eventually came to terms with her dual identity, realizing that both parts of herself were lovable.

In the second film, "Shrek 2", Fiona stood up to King Harold, Farquaad's successor, who planned to marry her off once again. She refused to marry anyone who made her uncomfortable or tried to use her for their own gain, demonstrating her growth and agency.

Finding Love with Shrek

Fiona and Shrek's relationship was another deviation from traditional Disney norm. Unlike many Disney couples, they didn't fall in love at first sight. Instead, their relationship developed over time, starting from a mutual rescue mission which grew into a deep bond and eventual love.

Even when faced with the challenge of finding out that Shrek was an ogre instead of the prince she was expecting, Fiona's love for him remained steadfast. She chose him, not for his appearance or status, but for who he truly was - kind, caring, and a true hero. This narrative choice highlighted the importance of accepting and loving someone for who they are, regardless of societal norms or expectations.

Fiona's Enduring Legacy

Princess Fiona's portrayal challenged and expanded the traditional Disney Princess archetype. She showed that princesses could be strong, independent, and even a little scary at times. She proved that a person's appearance and societal expectations didn't dictate their worth or loved ones' acceptance of them.

Moreover, Fiona's story, as depicted in the "Shrek" franchise, parodied and subverted many popular fairy tales, making it a hit with audiences worldwide. Her success paved the way for a new generation of Disney Princesses who were more than just damsels in distress, influencing characters like Tiana, Moana, and Elsa.

Princess Fiona's legacy continues to inspire and empower. She reminds us all that it's not our appearance or societal labels that define us, but our hearts and actions. And that truly, beauty is found within. So here's to Princess Fiona, the 'F' Disney Princess who started a revolution in the world of Disney Princesses, and continues to make her impact felt long after her last on-screen adventure.