Seven years after Toy Story 4, Tom Hanks is set to return as Woody with the ensemble cast for the next installment of the franchise. New updates reveal that the film will undo the disappointing ending of the previous movie, in which Woody chooses to leave the crew behind to live a life of adventure.
During a presentation in New York City earlier this month, Pixar Chief Creative Officer Pete Docter revealed several details surrounding the upcoming film, including how Woody will reunite with his old crew after all these years.
Toy Story 5 will reunite Tom Hanks’ Woody with his old crew
Toy Story 4 followed Woody and the gang adjusting to life with their new owner, Bonnie. But in a move that stunned longtime fans, the film ended with Woody parting ways with Buzz and the rest of the toys to join Bo Peep on a new life of adventure.
It was a heartfelt farewell, but one many fans saw as a betrayal of the character’s loyalty and core values. Now, Toy Story 5 is set to undo that emotional blow with a surprising and genius twist: Woody is reuniting with his old crew.
During a recent presentation in New York City, Pixar’s Chief Creative Officer Pete Docter confirmed that Woody will return to help the gang deal with a challenge involving her new toy, Lily Pad, a new tech tablet.
In Woody’s absence, Jessie has stepped up as the new sheriff, with Buzz Lightyear acting as her assistant deputy. The rest of the gang, including fan favorites like Hamm, Rex, Slinky, and Mr. Potato Head, remain as lively as ever.
Buzz and Woody’s (Tom Hanks) dynamic remains charged, with the two continuing to clash over their differing perspectives. Pete Docter noted,
Woody is called back to help, but it’s been a while since they’ve all seen each other — and he and Buzz don’t always see eye to eye, as per People.
For fans still heartbroken over Woody’s goodbye in Toy Story 4, this reunion will offer long-awaited emotional closure. The film’s smart twist doesn’t just bring Woody back, it restores the heart of the franchise.
Toy Story 5 introduces a high-tech villain as Woody returns to save the day
Every Toy Story film has introduced a memorable villain, whether it’s Sid or Lotso, each of whom presents unique challenges for Andy’s toys. But in Toy Story 5, the franchise is taking a modern turn with a new and unexpected antagonist, a sleek tech tablet named Lily Pad.
Pixar’s Chief Creative Officer, Pete Docter, revealed the narrative, saying,
The job of the toys has been to be there for their kids. But with Toy Story 5, that job gets exponentially harder when our toy crew gets replaced by what kids are obsessed [with] today: electronics.
Now eight years old, Bonnie receives a Lily Pad tablet that quickly becomes her favorite companion. It keeps her entertained, connected, and socially engaged. But this device isn’t just smart, it has a personality of its own.
Pete Docter described Lily Pad as “sneaky and prickly to be around,” noting that in her view, Bonnie needs to move on from toys.” This sparks tension within the group, as the toys feel increasingly forgotten. The situation likely prompts Jessie to come up with a bold plan to bring Woody back.
Certain things, however, remain under wraps, such as how Jessie reaches out and what role he’ll play in resolving the crisis. But one thing is certain: Woody’s return is set to rekindle the emotional magic that made the franchise beloved around the world.
The Toy Story film series is available to watch on Disney+.
Toy Story 5 is set to release on June 19, 2026.
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