Disney-Pixar Tease ‘Toy Story 5’ with Theme and Plot Details

At this year’s D23 entertainment showcase, new details were revealed about the upcoming fifth installment of the Toy Story franchise. Fans were given a simple title reveal and the announcement that Woody would be reuniting with the gang.

Get excited for their next chapter as Woody, Buzz, Jessie and the gang all return for #ToyStory5, coming to theaters Summer 2026! #D23 pic.twitter.com/w5yrlbkpYP

— Pixar (@Pixar) August 10, 2024

Following the controversial end of Toy Story 4, Woody left the gang to join his old flame, Bo Peep, after being separated for years. Many were unhappy with this decision as it went against what Woody had been about in the previous three movies — the loyalty a toy has for its owner.

After much speculation about whether or not we would see him appear in this new film, Woody is now back and tackling a new age threat that all toys face: technology. 



In the one piece of concept art the toys can be seen at the edge of Bonnie’s bed looking concerned as she taps away at a smart device. This echoes what many children on the 2020s have become accustomed to, less physical entertainment and more digital. Things like YouTube, streaming, social media, phone games etc. All things that lead to many toys sitting on store shelves.

It was also revealed that one of the main threats of the film will be an army of 50 malfunctioning Buzz Lightyear figures. One screenshot showed a lineup of identical Buzz toys with a red glowing belt that looked ominous. Is it just me or does this remind anyone of DreamWorks’ 1998 movie Small Soldiers?



While it is still too early to judge, many fans seem uncertain about the franchise’s continuation after all these years. After all, next year will be the series’ 30th anniversary.

But what do you think? Are you excited about Toy Story 5’s release in the summer of 2026? Or should this toy be left in its packaging? Let us know your thoughts.