Joan Cusack calls ‘Toy Story’ role the ‘most important’ work of her career
The actress shares why returning as Jessie means so much to her
Joan Cusack opened up about returning to the world of Toy Story and revealing a deeper side of Jessie the cowgirl in the upcoming fifth installment.
The 63-year-old actress, who first voiced Jessie in Toy Story 2, said the beloved Pixar franchise holds a special place in her career and described her role as one of the most meaningful projects she has ever taken on.
Speaking to ABC, Cusack shared why being part of the animated series has been so important to her.
“It’s been the most important thing I’ve done in my whole life. That’s what kids watch,” she said.
The actress explained that contributing to children’s experiences through storytelling has made the role especially rewarding.
“To do something like that where you’re contributing to their world was fun to think about,” she added.
Cusack also teased a major evolution for Jessie in Toy Story 5, revealing that the character will enter a new chapter filled with courage and emotional growth.
“She kind of grows up to be, in this film, a real leader,” Cusack said.
“She’s brave, she’s fearless, it just gets to some emotional depth that is kind of unexpected,” she added.
The new film will explore another side of Jessie as she moves beyond being just a supportive member of the toy group and takes on greater responsibility.
Alongside Cusack, the film will see the return of franchise favorites including Tom Hanks as Woody and Tim Allen as Buzz Lightyear.
The cast was also surprised when Taylor Swift reportedly created a new song, “I Knew It, I Knew You,” for the movie, written from Jessie’s perspective.
Hanks previously reflected on the responsibility of continuing the iconic franchise, explaining that he and Allen understood the importance of protecting the connection audiences have built with the characters over the years.