Pixar’s beloved Toy Story franchise is set for an epic return as Toy Story 5 rides into theaters on June 19, 2026. With Andrew Stanton directing and a cast including Tom Hanks (Woody), Tim Allen (Buzz Lightyear), Joan Cusack (Jessie), and newcomers Greta Lee (Lilypad) and Conan O’Brien (Smarty Pants), this fifth installment promises a heartfelt, high-tech adventure. Fans and families can look forward to Pixar’s signature storytelling blended with timely themes that reflect a new era of childhood play.
Toy Story 5: Teaser Trailer & Modern Plot
The first Toy Story 5 teaser trailer, released November 11, 2025, introduces a bold new storyline: toys meeting tech. Woody, Buzz, Jessie, and gang are challenged by Bonnie’s growing obsession with Lilypad—a frog-shaped smart tablet voiced by Greta Lee—which upends the traditional playroom dynamic. The toys must adapt to a world where screens rival imagination, sparking comic escapades and emotional moments. The trailer showcases Woody, Buzz, and Jessie plotting to reclaim their place in Bonnie’s life while navigating Lilypad’s digital wizardry.
Toy Story 5: Cast, Characters & Creative Team
All your favorite characters are back for Toy Story 5:
- Woody: Tom Hanks
- Buzz Lightyear: Tim Allen
- Jessie: Joan Cusack
- Forky: Tony Hale
- Combat Carl: Ernie Hudson
- Smarty Pants (new): Conan O’Brien (a tech-savvy toilet training toy)
- Lilypad (new): Greta Lee (high-tech frog tablet)
Directed by Andrew Stanton (WALL- E, Finding Nemo), co-directed by Kenna Harris, and produced by Lindsey Collins (Turning Red), this installment brings fresh energy and Pixar pedigree.
Toy Story 5: Story Details and Thematic Shift
Toy Story 5 is set years after Woody’s departure from Bonnie, leaving Jessie in charge of the room with Buzz as her second-in-command. Eight-year-old Bonnie’s new favorite, Lilypad, throws the toy world into chaos with her touch-screen charm. The plot centers on toys versus technology, with Lilypad’s screen-based play and witty AI challenging Woody and Buzz in their quest for relevance and connection. Pete Docter, Pixar’s chief creative officer, described it as “Toy meets Tech,” promising unexpected twists and “cool things you’ve never seen before”. Toy Story 5 trailer.
Production, Release, and New Characters
Development for Toy Story 5 began in February 2023, confirmed by Disney CEO Bob Iger and led by a stellar writing and production team. This is the first Toy Story film without co-creator John Lasseter’s involvement, featuring Andrew Stanton’s vision. Greta Lee was revealed to voice Lilypad, and Conan O’Brien’s addition as Smarty Pants brings fresh comedic energy. Ernie Hudson joins as Combat Carl, taking over from Carl Weathers. The film’s technical specs include Dolby Atmos sound, 2.39:1 aspect ratio, and cutting-edge computer animation.
Marketing & What’s Next
Toy Story 5’s initial scenes were previewed at Annecy International Animation Film Festival and Disney’s D23, generating early buzz and positive reactions from fans. The trailer highlights the new tech-savvy toy, vibrant animation colors, and a playful rivalry for Bonnie’s attention. Marketing positions Toy Story 5 as a timely, modern Pixar adventure that tackles both nostalgia and the dominance of smart devices in kids’ lives.
The Legacy Continues: Why Toy Story 5 Matters
Seven years after Toy Story 4, Pixar’s next chapter arrives at a moment when screen time and technology compete for every child’s imagination. Toy Story 5 is set to ignite conversations about friendship, innovation, and coping with change, all wrapped in Pixar’s trademark mix of heart and humor. For fans of the series, this installment reaffirms that toys—and the joy of play—still have magic left.
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