Toy Story 5 Steals the Spotlight at D23 Expo News Roundup

August 30, 2025 - ORLANDO, Fla. - Pixar Animation Studios unveiled fresh details about Toy Story 5 during its Destination D23 presentation today, offering fans an exclusive first look at the highly anticipated sequel.

In a surprise screening of the film’s opening three-minute clip, attendees watched as the so-called “Multi Buzz” sequence unfolds: dozens of high-tech Buzz Lightyear figures awaken stranded on a deserted island after their shipping container washes ashore. The scene sets up a frantic, humorous quest as the Buzz toys band together to find their way back to Star Command.

Alongside the preview, Pixar introduced two new characters joining the beloved toy ensemble. Conan O’Brien lends his voice to Smarty Pants, a cheeky potty-training toy, whose playful banter is expected to add a fresh comedic spark to the narrative. The studio also unveiled Lilly Pad, a mysterious tech-savvy toy that hints at the film’s theme of “Toy Meets Tech”.

Returning to reprise their iconic roles are Tom Hanks (Woody), Tim Allen (Buzz Lightyear), Joan Cusack (Jessie) and Tony Hale (Forky), while newcomers Anna Faris and Ernie Hudson bolster the cast. Directed by Andrew Stanton and co-directed by Kenna Harris, Toy Story 5 is produced by Jessica Choi.

Pixar confirmed the sequel’s release date as June 19, 2026, and announced that Buzz Lightyear will once again soar above New York City as a balloon in the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade as part of the franchise’s 30th-anniversary celebrations. Additionally, the original 1995 Toy Story will be rereleased in theaters beginning September 12, 2025, giving audiences a chance to relive the groundbreaking classic on the big screen.