Tom Hanks Says the Toy Story Cast Is Still Amazed to Be Part of the Franchise After Five Films
Toy Story 5 hits theaters on June 19 with the return of beloved voices and a new generation of characters.
Tom Hanks has been the voice of Woody for more than 30 years, yet even he admits he’s surprised the Toy Story universe continues to grow. Appearing on May 18 at the Broadway opening of Celebrity Autobiography—a production starring and co-produced by his wife, Rita Wilson—the actor reflected on returning to Pixar’s iconic franchise.
Tom Hanks & Tim Allen, the voices of Woody & Buzz from Toy Story: Then & Now
1995 – Original Toy Story Red Carpet Premiere
2026 – CinemaCon Disney Panel Showcase for Toy Story 5 pic.twitter.com/Nvkabn1sLM— Inside Fandom (@InsideFandom) April 18, 2026
“The saga continues,” says Hanks
Hanks, now 69, shared that stepping back into the recording booth with longtime collaborators like Tim Allen, Joan Cusack, John Ratzenberger and Wallace Shawn felt both familiar and surreal.
“All I can say is the saga continues,” Hanks said. “I’ve seen the film. I don’t know how they do it, but it’s a vibrant and proper chapter in the Toy Story canon. None of us can believe we’re still part of it.”
A new challenge for Woody, Buzz and the gang
According to the official synopsis, Toy Story 5 introduces a modern twist: the toys must confront a new high-tech rival. When Bonnie receives Lilypad, a tablet-like smart toy with strong opinions about what’s best for her, Woody and his friends find their roles suddenly threatened.
The film explores whether traditional toys can coexist with cutting-edge technology—and whether playtime will ever be the same.
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New voices join the cast
The fifth installment expands the toy box with several new characters:
- Conan O’Brien as Smarty Pants, a toilet‑training tech toy
- Tony Hale returning as Forky
- Craig Robinson as Atlas, a hippo-shaped GPS
- Shelby Rabara as Snappy, a camera toy
- Scarlett Spears as Bonnie
- Mykal-Michelle Haris as Blaze
- Matty Matheson as Dr. Nutcase
These additions bring fresh humor and energy to a franchise known for its emotional depth and inventive storytelling.
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When and where to watch
Toy Story 5 arrives in theaters June 19. Meanwhile, Celebrity Autobiography continues its Broadway run through August 9.