Toy Story 5is just weeks from launching as part of the2026 movie schedule, which means fans are near to reuniting with the franchise’s endearing characters. At least one of those well-known toys will appear somewhat different when they return, however, as Woody will have undergone some modifications. In the film directed by Andrew Stanton, the famous cowboy will not only have a bald spot but also a bit of a belly. Now, Tom Hanks – who gives voice to the cherished pull-string doll – is responding to a question I had about the design.
I actually had a chance to talk to Stanton about theResponse to Woody’s bald spotbut wasn’t able to inquire about the more practical reason for it. What I specifically wanted to know is exactly what causes the top of Woody’s head to fade in-universe, and after his gut was revealed, I had the same question. Well, Hanks discussed his character’s new appearance as part of a piece forEW. During the conversation, the beloved actor expressed his perspective on what has specifically led to the cowboy’s hair loss:
He has been pushed too far. You keep putting a rubber hat on a rubber head over and over again, and eventually, something is going to rub raw. So, yeah, he does have… let’s call it a worn spot on the back of his head.
This became quite clear in retrospect, but to be completely honest, I never really thought about the constant removal of Woody’s hat being the cause of his bald spot. Part of me questioned whether it was simply fading over time due to other reasons. Regardless, the issue of the gut might have appeared even more puzzling to some fans. Well, Hanks and the team have considered that too, and once again, the explanation is quite straightforward:
He is not made of plastic. He is constructed from stuffing and fabric, and the filling tends to settle with time.
Ever since I came across that particular quote, I’ve been trying to remember if I had any stuffed animals as a child that behaved in similar ways. Nothing is coming to mind right now, but the reasoning here definitely makes sense. On the surface, these small changes to Woody can certainly be used for comedic effect, but they also symbolize the passage of time. This idea really resonates with someone like me, who is old enough to have witnessed…Toy Story 2In theaters during their childhood. With that in mind, what this franchise keeps demonstrating is its ability to evolve alongside its audience while staying relevant.
Speaking of timely, Toy Story 5witnesses Bonnie’s toys confronting the emergence of technological gadgets, which are starting to take over playtime. This situation appears to be the reason why Woody comes back together with Buzz, Jessie, Bullseye, and the others. According to the footage that has been shown so far, this could be aa more somber addition to the series. At the same time, however, there still appears to be a significant amount of humor, and theTS5 traileralso hinted at some charming references to the previous movies.
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We’ll need to observe if the toys succeed in the era of technology. Besides observing the story unfold, I’ll also admit to paying attention to Woody’s bald spot and belly. I’m interested in whether the character maintains those flaws or alters them with a magic marker and some stuffing adjustments.
Toy Story 5comes to theaters on June 19, and until then, fans can view the first four films through aDisney+ subscription.
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