Woody is returning to the Toy Story franchise for the fifth movie expected in 2026. There are high expectations for the next chapter following Toy Story 4‘s controversial ending for Woody, a character who became beloved due to Pixar’s partial realization of its original vision. The pull-string cowboy doll has become known for his modest leadership and charming vocal performance by Tom Hanks. While first drafts had him written very differently before revisions resulted in his familiar characterization, the final iteration of Woody is closer to Pixar’s dark Toy Story plan than one might think.
The early rejection of Toy Story‘s drafts contributed to its huge success, particularly considering Toy Story’s legacy in animation. As the first 3D computer-animated movie of that era, it was crucial for Pixar to gain favor with audiences early on. It is difficult to imagine how this could have worked without the endearing, loyal version of Woody who has become cherished by audiences worldwide. Nevertheless, Toy Story largely proves the studio’s commitment to their original villain concept in the strained relationship between Woody and Buzz Lightyear (Tim Allen) — the toy that ignites Woody’s jealousy.
Woody Was Supposed To Be The Villain Of Toy Story In Earlier Drafts
Woody Was Disliked By The Cast & Test Audiences
Woody’s personality in the final product far opposes what the studio creatives originally had planned. The main character was reportedly intended to be a tyrannical antagonist who bullies the rest of the toys, rather than the well-meaning team player who leads with empathy (via Collider). These earlier drafts were ultimately dismissed by the studio after immensely negative reactions when a mock-up of the film was screened for Disney in November 1993 (via The Independent). Consequently, the production of Toy Story was terminated until a new script could be produced (via EW).
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Toy Story 5’s Confirmed Villain Continues An Odd Trend That Even Pixar’s Most Divisive Movie Included
Although there are still a lot of unanswered questions about Toy Story 5’s plot, Pixar has made it clear who will be the movie’s bad guy(s).
The cast was not particularly receptive to Woody’s villain arc either, with Hanks reportedly exclaiming “This guy is a jerk!” during the recording for Toy Story‘s reel. Of course, many other aspects were altered throughout this process. Buzz’s legendary astronaut suit is perhaps the most pertinent example, although the biggest change was unquestionably Woody’s diversion from the villain to the hero. Woody’s potential villain arc could have drastically altered the film’s direction, as well as his dynamic with Buzz. Buzz was not all that likable of a character either in the original draft, but as both characters evolved, Woody retained some negative traits.
Woody Was Technically The Antagonist To Buzz For Most Of Toy Story
Woody’s Actions Are Driven By Overwhelming Jealousy & A Possessive Spirit
It’s established very early on in Toy Story that Woody is the leader of the pack, but some of his actions are obnoxious actions. He may play an important role in Andy’s life, but Woody is somewhat cruel to his fellow toys. It may not be noticeable if it were an isolated event, but Woody’s selfish desires frequently cause trouble. These conflicts are only aggravated when Buzz arrives and Woody becomes jealous that Andy’s attention towards him falters. This leads the pull-string to conspire against Buzz, causing him to fall out of a window.
The majority of Woody and Buzz’s issues in Toy Story derive from jealousy, but Woody has a complete lack of empathy for Buzz. He provokes the astronaut with subtle jabs throughout the film and even fabricates a scenario to deny all accusations against him when things go wrong instead of taking accountability. It could even be argued that Woody only saves the space ranger towards the end out of self-gratification after all the other toys have lost faith in him. He does not initially have good intentions towards Buzz, showing how the final Woody remains more faithful to the original story.
Woody Being A Flawed Main Character Is Why Toy Story Worked
Woody’s Character Resonates With The Audience More For His Flaws
Woody is flawed, but this is exactly what makes him so revered in the Toy Story franchise. His intentions may be dubious at times, but he does try to make up for it. It is Woody’s ability to learn from his past mistakes that make him more resonant and enhances his overall appeal. Woody is not the quintessential hero, and this is important in teaching the strength of acknowledging our flaws and adding more complexity to his arc. His weaknesses make him a more dynamic and captivating character who breaks away from the ordinary, one-dimensional, animated protagonist.
Woody’s capacity to change is still dependent upon his initial imperfections, which is why the character arc is even more impactful by the end of the fourth film.
More importantly, Woody’s imperfections are crucial to Toy Story’s entire franchise, as he continuously grows and adapts. His worldview is challenged time and time again as he and the other toys move to different locations. Woody’s capacity to change is still dependent upon his initial imperfections, which is why the character arc is even more impactful by the end of the fourth film. Woody’s imperfections underscore the evolving nature of his relationships, especially his lasting friendship with Andy, which is the true core of Toy Story.
Source: Collider, The Independent, EW
Toy Story
Pixar’s first feature film release sees Woody (Tom Hanks), a cowboy doll, confronted by the nightmare of being replaced as his owner Andy’s favorite toy jeopardized when his parents buy him a Buzz Lightyear (Tim Allen) action figure. Stricken by anxiety, Woody hatches a plan to remain the favorite, kicking off a race against time for the toys to be reunited with their owner before his house move makes them permanently Lost Toys.
- Director
- John Lasseter
- Release Date
- November 22, 1995
- Writers
- Joss Whedon , Alec Sokolow , Joel Cohen , Andrew Stanton
- Runtime
- 81 minutes