Tom Hanks reveals Taylor Swift's 'Toy Story 5' song was kept secret until release

Tom Hanks revealed that even the cast was kept in the dark about Taylor Swift’s involvement in Toy Story 5 until the very last moment. At the Los Angeles premiere, Hanks told Variety that Disney ushered the actors into a soundproof room just hours before the film’s release to unveil Swift’s original end-credits track, I Knew It, I Knew You. He described the secrecy as “top secret” and compared the surprise to suddenly learning Judy Garland would sing Over the Rainbow.

Disney had teased Swift’s participation with subtle hints, but the official reveal came on June 1, accompanied by a countdown clock on her website. The song was not included in early screenings, where a placeholder track was used instead.

Plot, Cast, and Highlights of 'Toy Story 5'

In Toy Story 5, Woody, Buzz, and Jessie return to face a brand-new challenge: a technological threat that endangers Bonnie’s playtime. The story begins with Woody separated from his friends while rescuing discarded toys. His many adventures have left him worn down, even revealing a bald spot beneath his cowboy hat—a detail Tom Hanks described as a natural part of the toy’s life cycle.

The voice cast brings back beloved stars including Tom Hanks as Woody, Tim Allen as Buzz Lightyear, and Joan Cusack as Jessie. They are joined by an impressive lineup of new voices: Greta Lee, Keanu Reeves, Craig Robinson, Alan Cumming, Conan O’Brien, and Bad Bunny.

Adding to the excitement, Taylor Swift secretly recorded the original end-credits song, I Knew It, I Knew You. Disney kept this under wraps until June 1, when a countdown clock on Swift’s website revealed the track. Even the cast didn’t know until hours before the premiere, making the surprise feel monumental.

Toy Story 5 hits theaters on June 19, 2026, promising nostalgia, fresh energy, and a heartfelt continuation of the toys’ journey.