Tim Allen is back in the recording booth, breathing life once again into the iconic space ranger, Buzz Lightyear. The actor, beloved for his portrayal of the toy astronaut, has confirmed that he’s begun work on Toy Story 5—and fans are buzzing with excitement.
In a candid interview with Collider, Allen shared his initial thoughts on stepping back into Buzz’s space boots and gave just enough of a tease to have audiences eagerly awaiting the movie’s 2026 release.
A Familiar Voice Returns
The first recording session is always a milestone, especially for a franchise as cherished as Toy Story. For Allen, it was both a surreal and emotional experience.
“Well, I don’t know what I’m supposed to say,” the 71-year-old actor began with a laugh. “Yes, I just did the first five-hour session for Buzz, probably a week ago. It’s really, really weird to get back in it. I can’t tell you anything.”
Despite his reluctance to spill details, Allen’s enthusiasm was palpable. After a long pause between installments, stepping back into the recording studio brought a mix of nostalgia and excitement.
Debunking the ‘Cash Grab’ Claims
With every new sequel comes a fair share of skepticism. Critics and fans alike have questioned whether another Toy Story film was necessary or merely a way for Disney and Pixar to cash in on a lucrative franchise. Allen addressed this head-on, defending the integrity of the project.
“It’s a very, very clever story,” he emphasized. “Do you wanna do five of these? I don’t really believe it’s about the money. I’m sure they want it to be a success, but that’s not why they did it.”
He further explained that the decision to create another film hinged entirely on the strength of the script. “Had they not come up with a brilliant script, they wouldn’t have done it, and they wouldn’t have called me and Tom [Hanks]. It’s really clever.”
Allen’s comments suggest a thoughtful approach from the filmmakers, who seem determined to honor the legacy of the franchise rather than merely add another notch to their box office belt.
The Process Behind the Magic
Recording for animated films, especially those with intricate scripts, is no small task. Allen shared some insights into the painstaking process behind creating Buzz’s voice and personality for the film.
“I think we’re a year out,” he revealed. “I’ve gotten up to the third act. We’ll do the third act. And then, we’ll go back and clean it. And then, I’ll do it about five more times.”
The mention of multiple recording sessions underscores the care and precision that go into crafting every scene. Each line is meticulously revisited to ensure it captures the heart and humor fans have come to expect.
The Legacy of Buzz Lightyear
For Allen, Buzz Lightyear isn’t just another role—it’s a part of his identity. “I’m so blessed to be Buzz Lightyear, to be honest. It’s gonna be fun,” he shared warmly.
The sentiment reflects the enduring bond between the actor and his character, a relationship that has resonated with audiences for nearly three decades.
A Look Ahead: June 2026
The excitement surrounding Toy Story 5 has only grown since Disney announced its release date: June 19, 2026. While details about the plot remain tightly under wraps, the promise of a “clever story” and the return of fan-favorite characters are more than enough to keep anticipation high.
Fun Fact: Toy Story’s Box Office Legacy
Did you know that two Toy Story films rank among the highest-grossing animated movies of all time? This fact is a testament to the franchise’s universal appeal and its ability to connect with audiences of all ages.
The countdown to 2026 is officially on. For fans, it’s another chance to join Woody, Buzz, and the gang on an unforgettable adventure.
