Toy Story 5 director defends Pixar making another movie: “Nobody’s being robbed”

Director Andrew Stanton has defended Pixar’s decision to make Toy Story 5. Joining Empire for an interview, the filmmaker, who famously helmed Finding Nemo (2003) and WALL-E, has spoken about the project, which is slated for release on 19 June 2026. “So 3 was the end… of the Andy years,” Stanton reflected.

“Nobody’s being robbed of their trilogy. They can have that and never watch another if they don’t want to. But I’ve always loved how this world allows us to embrace time and change. There’s no promise that it stays in amber.”

Opening up about the film’s premise, Stanton noted that it will explore how technology has impacted children today. “Honestly, it’s not even really about a battle so much as the realisation of an existential problem: that nobody’s really playing with toys anymore,” he said.

“Technology has changed everybody’s lives, but we’re asking what that means for us — and to our kids. We can’t just get away with making tech the villain.”

This month, an official teaser trailer was released for Toy Story 5, and Disney has also shared a brief synopsis. It reads: “Buzz, Woody, Jessie and the rest of the gang’s jobs are challenged when they’re introduced to what kids are obsessed with today….electronics!”

Pixar – Disney

Billed the film’s antagonist, Woody (Tom Hanks) and Buzz (Tim Allen) will go up against Lily Pad, an electronic game tablet voiced by Greta Lee. Joining the cast, Conan O’Brien will also appear as Smarty Pants, a toilet training tech.

While details surrounding Toy Story 5 are limited, Allen, recently told WIVB what fans can expect. “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 Lightyears. I can give you that, but I can’t give you much more.”

toy story 5, mr and mrs potato head, with mr potato head holding his wife's removable eyes in his hands

Pixar – Disney

Meanwhile, Stanton and co-director Kenna Harris, said: “It’s been a hilarious and poignant journey exploring how our favorite team of legacy toys might respond to today’s world of technology, and we’re thrilled to share this first glimpse with audiences.

“Having the remarkably talented Greta Lee bring Lilypad to life — balancing a playfully antagonistic tone with humor and heart — has been incredible.”

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

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