Buzz and Woody Reunite in a Jessie-Focused Sequel
Tim Allen is once again stepping into his iconic space ranger boots for Toy Story 5, and fans are finally getting a glimpse into what Pixar has planned for the beloved franchise’s fifth installment. In a recent interview with WIVB while promoting his comedy tour, Allen revealed that the upcoming film will shine a spotlight on Jessie, the spirited cowgirl voiced by Joan Cusack.
“I can tell you that it’s a lot about Jessie,” Allen confirmed. “Tom [Hanks] and I do — Woody and I — do realign. And there’s an unbelievable opening scene with Buzz Lightyears. I can give you that, but I can’t give you much more.”
A Return to Classic Toy Story Energy
Jessie, who debuted in Toy Story 2 in 1999, has long been a fan favorite, and the decision to center part of the narrative around her hints at a return to the emotional depth and character-driven storytelling that made the franchise iconic. While specific plot details remain under wraps, Allen’s hints suggest a high-energy opening scene involving multiple Buzz Lightyears—raising questions about multiverse-style storytelling or perhaps a dream sequence.
Allen Reunites With Hanks for Fifth Installment
Buzz and Woody have been the emotional core of the Toy Story universe since the franchise began in 1995, and Allen’s confirmation of his reunion with Tom Hanks suggests a strong nostalgic pull for longtime fans. Allen previously hinted at the project back in December 2024 during an interview with Collider after completing his first five-hour voice session for Buzz.
“It’s really, really weird to get back in it,” Allen said. “It was a struggle to find the voice again, but two hours in, I was doing Buzz. I’m so blessed to be Buzz Lightyear.”
Pixar Moving Ahead With Confidence
Allen praised the direction Pixar is taking, emphasizing that the decision to greenlight Toy Story 5 wasn’t financially motivated. “Had they not come up with a brilliant script, they wouldn’t have done it, and they wouldn’t have called me and Tom. It’s really clever,” he said. “I’ve gotten up to the third act. We’ll go back and clean it. And then, I’ll do it about five more times.”
The actor hinted that the film is still deep in production, suggesting a meticulously polished final product. Allen’s enthusiasm reinforces Pixar’s legacy of not releasing sequels unless the story truly warrants it—a hallmark of the studio’s reputation for storytelling excellence.
When Will Toy Story 5 Be Released?
Toy Story 5 is officially slated for theatrical release on June 19, 2026. The announcement comes as Pixar doubles down on revitalizing its classic franchises amid growing competition in the animated film market. With the confirmed return of both Allen and Hanks and the focus on a character like Jessie, fans can expect a story filled with emotional resonance, humor, and that unmistakable Pixar magic.