Puss in Boots (Shrek)

This article is about the character. For the film in the franchise starring the character, see Puss in Boots (2011 film). For the video game, see Puss in Boots (video game).

Puss in Boots
Shrek character
A fictional cat from the Shrek franchise, wearing boots, a feathered hat, and a cape while wielding a sword
First appearanceShrek 2 (2004)
Adapted byAndrew Adamson
Voiced by
Inspired by
In-universe information
Aliases
  • Diablo Gato
  • The Furry Lover
  • Chupacabra
  • Frisky Two Times
  • The Ginger Hit Man
  • The Stabby Tabby
  • El Macho Gato
  • The Leche Whisperer
  • Pickles
SpeciesTabby cat
GenderMale
WeaponRapier
FamilyImelda
(adoptive mother)
Humpty Dumpty
(adoptive brother)
Significant othersKitty Softpaws
OriginSan Ricardo
NationalitySpanish

Puss in Boots is a main character in the Shrek franchise. He made his first appearance in the film Shrek 2 (2004). He is portrayed as the title character and protagonist in the 2011 spin-off film Puss in Boots (in which his origins are described) and its 2022 sequel, Puss in Boots: The Last Wish (set sometime after Shrek Forever After). Puss also appears in the Netflix television series centered on him, The Adventures of Puss in Boots (2015–2018).

Puss was loosely based on the title character of the fairy tale "Puss in Boots". His design, created by Tom Hester, was based on real cats. Several characters were used as inspirations for Puss's characterization, such as Zorro, James Bond, and Indiana Jones. The idea of Puss as the protagonist of a film was explored after his debut appearance. Antonio Banderas voices Puss in the English, Spanish, and Italian dubs of the Shrek franchise. While he initially tried a high-pitched voice for the character, he and the Shrek 2 filmmakers decided on a tone that was deeper than his normal voice. Banderas said that voicing Puss was an important part of his career. Eric Bauza provides Puss's voice in The Adventures of Puss in Boots.

The character has received generally positive reviews, with critics praising his depiction and considering him a source of comic relief. Reviewers have regarded Puss as a popular Shrek character. Banderas's voice acting has also been praised. Merchandise inspired by the character has been produced.