Toy Story 5 first details confirm returning fan-favorite characters and voice actors
We're still a long way from the release of Toy Story 5 but it's never too early for the rumor train. This past week, The DisInsider dished out some of what they've heard about the upcoming film, including which characters will be returning with their original voice actors and more.
Although plot details are still unknown, it's reported that Toy Story 5 will see Woody and Buzz return for another adventure together. This is despite the ending of Toy Story 4 which saw Woody remain back with Bo Peep as a "lost toy."
Now on to the voice cast. Tim Allen will be returning to voice the beloved space ranger Buzz Lightyear. This comes as fantastic news for fans who were disappointed to see the role given to Chris Evans in the recent spin-off, Lightyear. Joining him for another adventure is Tom Hanks, who will return as the voice of Woody.
Honestly, we could stop here because without these two voices, the Toy Story movie would be an immediate flop. The fact that these two are returning already sets Toy Story off on the right foot.
Here's where things get even better though. More of the original cast has been rumored to be returning. This includes:
- Joan Cusack as Jessie
- Wallace Shawn as Rex
- John Ratzenberger as Hamm
- Blake Clark as Slinky Dog
- Tony Hale as Forky
- Bonnie Hunt as Dolly
- Annie Potts as Bo Peep
- Kristen Schaal as Trixie
- Jeff Garland as Buttercup
- Timothy Dalton as Mr. Pricklepants
Unfortunately, they could not confirm if Keanu Reeves or Ally Maki would be returning as Duke Caboom and Giggle McDimples, respectively. We also don't know if Ducky (Keegan-Michael Key) or Bunny (Jordan Peele) will be back.
Even without some of these newer characters, the fact that so many returning fan-favorites are back is surely a good sign.
Unfortunately, there are two iconic characters that are returning but with new voice actors — Mr. and Mrs. Potato Head. Don Rickles had actually passed away before Toy Story 4 was released, but the studio was able to use archived sounds and lines for Toy Story 4. Estelle Harris passed away in 2022.
Rather than write these two characters off, Pixar will recast the roles with new voice actors.
Andy is also rumored to return, but we don't know in what capacity. He is an adult now, but his family is said to be integral to the film's plot.
And finally, legendary composer Randy Newman, who has scored all four Toy Story films, is returning. This, perhaps, is as important as all of the returning actors. Newman's vocals are as important as the rest of the cast in establishing the tone of a Toy Story movie.
Keep in mind, that these are rumored reports from DisInsider and not yet confirmed. But I have a hard time believing Disney wouldn't open its pocketbooks to get the original cast to return for what will surely be one of Pixar's most anticipated movies.