Joshua Goldman
Joshua Goldman
min read · July 7, 2025 · Entertainment

Toy Story 5 Stir: Fans Upset Over Missing Faves!

Disney and Pixar fans have been left in a panic after they noticed some major characters missing from an alleged new look at Toy Story 5

TOY STORY 5 SHOCKER: Beloved Characters MISSING in New Image, Fans Freak Out!

The Toy Story franchise has been a staple of childhood entertainment for decades, and fans around the world are still reeling from the news that a fifth installment is on its way. But, as excitement builds, a new image believed to be from the upcoming movie has left many feeling like they've been "left in the toy box" - and it's not just because of the adorable new design.

The snap, which appears to be a still from Toy Story 5, shows Jessie standing proudly on a bed, surrounded by some of Bonnie's playmates. But, amidst the sea of familiar faces, many fans are pointing out that some beloved characters are nowhere to be found - and it has everyone buzzing!

Pixar first confirmed that a fifth installment to the beloved film series was in the works back in 2023. Now, a new image believed to be a still from the upcoming movie has gone viral

WHERE'S WOODY AND BUZZ?!

The most striking omission is the absence of Woody and Buzz Lightyear, two of the most iconic toys in the franchise. Fans took to X (formerly Twitter) to express their outrage, with one frantic fan asking: "WHAT HAPPENED TO MR. AND MRS. POTATO HEAD?!" Another user chimed in, "What happened to the Potato Heads and Slinky Dog?" The question on everyone's mind is: will these beloved toys make a comeback in Toy Story 5?

THEORY TIME!

The snap showed Jessie standing on a bed and facing a group of toys, which included many original squad members like Hamm the Pig, Rex, and a bunch of the alien toys

Some fans have theorized that Pixar may have "retired" the characters since their voice actors passed away. Don Rickles, who played Mr. Potato Head, died in 2017, while Estelle Harris, who voiced his wife, passed away in 2022. But, as one user pointed out, "So did they just retire Mr. and Mrs. Potato Head due to their voice actors having passed away?" Others are speculating that Pixar might be recasting the characters or finding new ways to keep them alive - but for now, it's anyone's guess!

DISNEY'S 'WOKE' PROBLEMS?

The absence of Woody and Buzz has also sparked a heated debate about Disney's increasing efforts to become more inclusive. With their recent changes to theme park policies and the removal of offensive imagery from movies and rides, some fans are accusing Disney of being too "woke" for its own good. One user wrote: "We can't even have the Potato Heads back because of woke." Another chimed in, "More woke trash swapping."

And while many were excited about the glimpse into the flick, others were not happy that some of the original toys weren't included in it - especially Mr. and Mrs. Potato Head

BUT WAIT...

Not everyone is jumping to conclusions just yet. As one fan pointed out, "Mind you half the cast isn't in this shot so chill," while another user added, "Obviously not every toy is in that picture." It's possible that Woody and Buzz are simply absent from this particular scene, or that they'll make a triumphant return later on.

THE FUTURE IS BRIGHT... AND COLORFUL!

So, what can we expect from Toy Story 5? According to Tim Allen (aka Buzz Lightyear), the new movie will follow Bonnie as she navigates the ups and downs of growing up - but it won't be all about her; Woody will be back, and Jessie will take center stage. As Tim shared with WIVB, "I can tell you that it's a lot about Jessie... Tom and I do - Woody and I - do realign." But don't worry, folks - Buzz Lightyear is back in action, and his opening scene is reportedly "unbelievable."

TOY STORY 5: THE WAIT IS ALMOST OVER!

Mark your calendars for June 19, 2026, when Toy Story 5 hits theaters worldwide. Will Woody and Buzz make a comeback? Will Jessie steal the show? One thing's for sure - we can't wait to find out!

Sources:

  • TheScholarlyNote.com (Exclusive Report)

Many began to worry that the toys would not be in the fifth movie at all, and were quick to slam the animation studio - which was acquired by Disney in 2006 - over the potential cut

Many people theorized that Pixar may have 'retired' the characters since their voice actors have passed away

Others pointed out that not every character is featured in the new photo so it's still possible that they could still be in the film

The fifth installment to the Toy Story series will follow your favorite group of toys facing a new challenge after their eight-year-old owner Bonnie gets an electronic tablet called Lillypad