Conan O’Brien Joins “Toy Story 5” Cast

The “Toy Story” franchise is getting a dose of late-night humor with Conan O’Brien cast as the voice of Smarty Pants, a new character in Disney and Pixar’s “Toy Story 5,” set to hit theaters on June 19, 2026. Announced on May 19, 2025, during Disney’s Licensing Expo presentation, O’Brien’s casting has sparked excitement for the fifth movie, which sees Woody, Buzz, and Jessie grappling with kids’ obsession with electronics. The comedian, fresh off hosting the 2025 Oscars, brings his signature wit to the beloved series. Conan teased fans on Instagram with jokes about snagging Tom Hanks’ or Tim Allen’s roles. Here’s everything to know about O’Brien’s role and what it means for the film.

A New Toy in the Box

O’Brien will voice Smarty Pants, a character shrouded in mystery but expected to shake up the toy gang’s dynamic, Variety noted. While Disney hasn’t revealed specifics, O’Brien’s comedic persona, known for self-deprecating humor and sharp improvisation from “Late Night with Conan O’Brien” suggests Smarty Pants could be a know-it-all toy who challenges the usual “Toy Story” crew. In a May 19 Instagram video, O’Brien quipped, “I wanted Woody, but they said Tom Hanks has it. Then I tried for Buzz, but Tim Allen’s got that locked. So they showed me Smarty Pants, it’s the best character of them all!” His playful jabs at Hanks and Allen, calling them “in a rut,” has fans already entertained. The character’s name and O’Brien’s casting align with the film’s “Toy meets Tech” theme, hinting at a tech-savvy toy facing off against modern gadgets, Hollywood Reporter confirmed.

O’Brien’s Pixar Moment

At 62, O’Brien is riding a career high. After hosting a successful 2025 Oscars, earning a spot to return as the host for 2026, he’s also starring in “Conan O’Brien Must Go” on Max, and voicing roles in projects like the Sundance hit “If I Had Legs I’d Kick You,” Deadline noted. His prior animation work, including The Riddler in “The Lego Batman Movie,” makes him a natural fit for Pixar’s playful yet heartfelt tone, Hollywood Reporter highlighted. O’Brien’s Instagram announcement, calling “Toy Story” a “legendary franchise,” reflects his enthusiasm: “These films are amazing. I can’t believe this!” His improvisational flair could bring a fresh comedic edge, potentially making Smarty Pants a standout in a crowded toy box.

What to Expect

O’Brien’s casting signals Pixar’s intent to blend nostalgia with innovation in “Toy Story 5.” Stanton, a two-time Oscar winner for “Finding Nemo” and “WALL-E,” has crafted a “clever” script, per Allen, that tackles modern themes while honoring the franchise’s emotional core, Variety stated. Smarty Pants might serve as a comedic foil to Woody’s earnestness or Buzz’s bravado, possibly tied to the tech-driven conflict. With filming underway, Hanks recently shared a recording update on social media. The June 2026 release is right around the corner, as Pixar aims to top “Toy Story 4’s” success, O’Brien’s role could be the secret weapon, delivering laughs and heart in a tech-tangled tale.