Toy Story 5: All About the Upcoming Film (and the Unexpected Character It Will Focus On!)

Toy Story 5 is officially hitting theaters in 2026.

After toys Buzz Lightyear and Woody — voiced by Tim Allen and Tom Hanks, respectively — parted ways at the end of Toy Story 4, the beloved Pixar franchise is back with a brand new story. According to what Allen told news outlet WIVB, this film will focus more on Jessie (Joan Cusack).

During Disney’s D23 expo in August 2024, Pixar shared the first details about what’s next for Buzz, Woody and their toy friends, as well as announcing that the fifth film will be released in June 2026.

Director Andrew Stanton, a key figure in the creation of the Toy Story universe, will take the helm and said at D23 that the latest installment will tackle contemporary issues, particularly the impact of technology on childhood play.

“In Toy Story 5 the toys’ jobs get exponentially harder when our toy crew goes head to head with what kids are obsessed with today: electronics,” he said at the event.

Allen shared a few more details about what fans can expect from the movie during an interview with

As the franchise prepares to explore new themes and challenges, the excitement is growing. Here’s everything we know so far about Toy Story 5.

How did Toy Story 4 leave off?

Toy Story 4 concluded with Woody and Buzz parting ways when the former joined Bo Peep (Annie Potts) to live a life as a “lost toy,” free from the constraints of being owned by a child.

Throughout the film, Woody struggled to find his place with Bonnie, as she no longer needed him as much as Andy did. Buzz, understanding Woody’s choice, assured him that Bonnie would be okay without him and supported Woody’s decision to start a new chapter.

Meanwhile, Buzz stayed with Bonnie, continuing to live with Jessie, Rex (Wallace Shawn), Hamm (John Ratzenberger) and other toys, including the new addition of Forky (Tony Hale). 

When will Toy Story 5 be released?

Toy Story 5 is slated for release on June 19, 2026.

Who is in the cast of Toy Story 5?

While casting details have not been officially announced, Allen confirmed during an appearance of The Tonight Show with Jimmy Fallon in November 2023 that Disney reached out to him and Hanks about reprising their roles. His update happened over six months after the entertainment company confirmed the project was in the works.

The concept art released at D23 also hints at the return of beloved characters like Jessie, Rex, Forky and Hamm, though official confirmation of their voice actors is still pending.

What is the plot of Toy Story 5?

Toy Story 5 director Stanton revealed that the central conflict of the latest film will involve the toys grappling with staying relevant in the age of technology.

The concept art revealed at D23 shows the toys looking sadly at their owner engrossed in a tablet, hinting at the emotional and humorous struggles they will face as they try to reclaim the child’s attention.

In an interview with The Wrap in February 2023, Pete Docter, executive producer of Toy Story 5 and one of the creators and writers behind the 1995 Toy Story and its 1999 sequel, said that the upcoming installment will be “surprising.”

“It’s got some really cool stuff that you haven’t seen before,” he said.

While talking to news outlet WIVB in April 2025, Allen said that the movie will have an emphasis on Jessie’s journey.

“I can tell you that it’s a lot about Jessie,” he said. “Tom [Hanks] and I do — Woody and I — do realign. And there’s an unbelievable opening scene with Buzz Lightyear. I can give you that, but I can’t give you much more.”

Is there a trailer for Toy Story 5?

As of now, there is no trailer available for Toy Story 5.

That said, a teaser trailer was shown at D23 with Woody, Buzz and Jessie waving to viewers.

Who is directing Toy Story 5?

Stanton, a longtime Pixar director known for classics like Finding Nemo and A Bug’s Life, will direct Toy Story 5. Stanton has been a key creative force behind the Toy Story series since its inception as a writer on all the former Toy Story films.

He will co-direct with McKenna Harris, who produced Elemental and directed the Disney+ animated short Ciao Alberto, based on Luca, per The Wrap.

In August 2024, Harris posted on Instagram about her excitement in working on the film. 

“YEEE-HAW! i’m co-directing toy story 5, and we’ve been having the best time with the best team ever! 🤠⭐️ ,” she wrote. “so happy to be working with Andrew Stanton and my girl @jesschoismyth on this sweet, sweet movie!! 🥰.”

Where can I watch Toy Story 5?

Toy Story 5 will be released in theaters in June 2026. In the meantime, fans can catch up on all the Toy Story movies on Disney+.