Toy Story 5 Trailer Shows Woody Back and Fighting Smart Tablets in June 2026

Woody is back in Toy Story 5! The new trailer shows him fighting a smart tablet, a big change from just playing with toys.
By Newsroom | Movies, Animation |

The first trailer for Toy Story 5 has been released, highlighting the return of Woody and presenting a new challenge for the beloved toys: the encroaching influence of technology on playtime. The footage shows Woody reuniting with his old friends, including Buzz Lightyear, as they confront a high-tech smart tablet that threatens to divert children's attention away from traditional toys. The film is slated for release on June 19, 2026, and features a blend of returning voice actors and new additions to the cast.

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Woody's Reunion and the Central Conflict

After the events of Toy Story 4, where Woody chose to stay with Bo Peep, the new trailer reveals his return to his original group of friends. This reunion is prompted by a new threat: a smart tablet device, specifically a frog-shaped one named Lilypad, voiced by Greta Lee. This device appears to be drawing the attention of children, particularly Bonnie, the current owner of the toys, away from their physical playthings. The core conflict revolves around the toys' mission to reclaim playtime from these digital distractions and restore their purpose.

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  • Woody's Return: Tom Hanks reprises his role as Woody, who is seen wearing a poncho in the trailer. His decision to rejoin the group seems to be driven by the need to address the technological takeover.

  • Technological Threat: The introduction of Lilypad marks a significant antagonist in the Toy Story universe, representing a new form of competition for the toys' existence. This character is described as a "high-tech, frog-shaped smart tablet" designed to make the toys' jobs harder.

  • Buzz Lightyear's Role: Tim Allen returns as Buzz Lightyear. The trailer suggests a familiar dynamic between Woody and Buzz, hinting at their characteristic bickering as they team up against the new challenge.

Returning Cast and New Additions

Toy Story 5 brings back a number of familiar voices, anchoring the film with its established ensemble. Alongside Tom Hanks and Tim Allen, the cast includes:

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  • Joan Cusack as Jessie

  • Blake Clark as Slinky Dog

  • Tony Hale as Forky (from Toy Story 4)

  • John Ratzenberger

  • Wallace Shawn

  • Jeff Bergman

  • Anna Vocino

  • Annie Potts

  • Bonnie Hunt

  • John Hopkins

  • Kristen Schaal

  • Ernie Hudson stepping in as Combat Carl

  • Keanu Reeves as Duke Caboom (from Toy Story 4)

Newcomers to the franchise include:

  • Greta Lee as Lilypad

  • Conan O’Brien as Smarty Pants, a toilet training tech toy.

Thematic Exploration: Toys vs. Technology

The trailers strongly emphasize the theme of toys struggling to maintain their relevance in an increasingly digital world. This narrative choice appears to be a deliberate commentary on the evolving landscape of childhood entertainment.

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  • Abandonment and Purpose: The trailers hint that Woody has encountered many abandoned toys in the wild, suggesting a broader issue stemming from the technological shift. The toys' fundamental purpose is to bring joy to children, and this is perceived to be at risk.

  • Restoring Playtime: The mission articulated by Jessie, via a walkie-talkie, is to enlist Woody's help in combating this "tech takeover" and restoring playtime to its "former, non-digital glory."

  • Pixar's Stance: This theme aligns with previous statements from Pixar's Chief Creative Officer, Pete Docter, who has spoken about the potential threats posed by AI and technology, suggesting a consistent concern within the studio regarding these developments.

Production and Directorial Vision

Andrew Stanton, a veteran of the Toy Story franchise who co-wrote all previous entries, is directing and writing Toy Story 5. This directorial role marks a significant creative leadership position for the film, building on his extensive experience with the characters and universe. The film arrives at a time when Disney and Pixar animation are experiencing renewed momentum.

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Evidence of Woody's Return and the Tech Conflict

The trailers consistently point to several key elements:

  • Woody's Presence: Multiple sources confirm Woody's return, with Tom Hanks reprising the role. His presence is central to the narrative as he rejoins Buzz and the others.

  • Smart Tablet Antagonist: The introduction of Lilypad, a frog-shaped smart tablet, is a recurring detail across the reports, establishing it as the primary technological threat.

  • Reunion Dynamic: Reports suggest that the reunion between Woody and Buzz will echo their past dynamic, marked by their initial bickering and eventual camaraderie.

  • Thematic Emphasis: The overarching theme of toys competing with technology for children's attention is consistently highlighted.

Conclusion

The initial trailers for Toy Story 5 establish a clear narrative trajectory: the return of Woody to his core group of friends and their subsequent confrontation with a new, technologically advanced adversary. The film appears set to explore the evolving relationship between physical toys and digital entertainment, a theme that resonates with contemporary discussions about childhood development and screen time. With a strong ensemble cast, including returning favorites and new voices, and helmed by Andrew Stanton, Toy Story 5 is positioned to continue the franchise's legacy while addressing modern concerns. The central conflict between traditional toys and smart technology promises an engaging and perhaps thought-provoking adventure for audiences.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What does the Toy Story 5 trailer show about Woody?
The trailer shows Woody returning to his old friends like Buzz Lightyear. He is back to help them fight a new problem.
Q: What is the new problem for the toys in Toy Story 5?
The toys are fighting a smart tablet named Lilypad. This tablet takes children's attention away from playing with real toys.
Q: When will Toy Story 5 come out?
Toy Story 5 is planned to be released on June 19, 2026. The first trailer is now available to watch.
Q: Who is in the cast of Toy Story 5?
Tom Hanks is back as Woody and Tim Allen is Buzz Lightyear. Greta Lee voices the new tablet character Lilypad. Many other favorite voices will return.
Q: Why are the toys fighting technology in Toy Story 5?
The movie is about how toys are losing their importance because kids are playing more with screens. The toys want to remind children why playing with them is fun.