Tom Hanks Says Artificial Intelligence Could Recreate His Woody Character In Toy Story Films
Tom Hanks warns AI may replace Woody role.
Actor Tom Hanks has expressed concern that advances in artificial intelligence could eventually allow studios to recreate his voice as Woody in the Toy Story franchise without requiring him to return to the recording studio, calling the possibility a “scary thought.” His remarks have added to ongoing industry debates about the use of AI in filmmaking and voice replication. Speaking during a conversation with Entertainment Weekly, Hanks suggested that companies like Disney may already be approaching a point where they could technically produce new Toy Story instalments using existing recordings of his performances.
With more than three decades of archived dialogue as Woody, he noted that it may be possible for artificial intelligence systems to piece together new lines that sound convincingly authentic, even without fresh voice recordings. According to Hanks, this technological capability raises fundamental questions about creative ownership and the future of acting. While he acknowledged that AI tools are improving rapidly, he stressed that the idea of his performance being digitally reconstructed to continue a beloved character long after his direct involvement is unsettling.
He described the scenario as one where technology could potentially replace the need for original performers in certain roles, particularly in long-running franchises with extensive voice archives. The actor emphasised that although the entertainment industry is undeniably a large commercial enterprise, creative integrity should remain central to decision-making about sequels and franchise expansions. He cautioned that simply extending popular brands for commercial gain, without introducing meaningful narrative or thematic innovation, risks weakening the artistic value of the work.
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“If you’re gonna do another Toy Story, it better be worthwhile. It better be great,” he said, adding that any continuation of the franchise should explore “some theme that is not just dragging it out because people like the title.” He acknowledged the commercial success of the series but argued that financial incentives alone should not determine whether new films are produced. The discussion reflects broader concerns across Hollywood about the growing use of artificial intelligence in creative industries. AI technologies are increasingly capable of generating realistic voice imitations, synthesising dialogue, and recreating digital likenesses of actors.
This has sparked debate over issues such as consent, compensation, and the long-term implications for performers whose past work could be used to train or power such systems. Industry stakeholders, including actors’ unions and production houses, have already begun negotiating frameworks to regulate AI usage in film and television production. Key points of contention include whether studios should be allowed to reuse an actor’s voice or image without explicit permission and how performers should be compensated if their digital likeness is used in future projects. The Toy Story franchise, one of Pixar’s most successful and enduring properties, has featured Hanks as the voice of Woody for more than 30 years.
His portrayal has become central to the character’s identity and emotional appeal. The possibility of continuing the franchise without his direct involvement raises questions about whether audiences would accept AI-generated performances in place of original human acting. Hanks’ comments underscore a broader tension between technological innovation and artistic authenticity. While AI offers new creative possibilities, it also challenges traditional notions of performance, originality, and authorship in cinema. As the technology continues to evolve, the entertainment industry faces increasing pressure to define clear boundaries for its use while preserving the role of human creativity at the centre of storytelling.
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