Actor Tom Hanks has expressed his concerns about the possibility of being replaced by AI as the voice of Woody in the Toy Story franchise. He believes that Disney could use AI to recreate his iconic voice for future films, including Toy Story 6, without needing him to return to the recording studio.
With over three decades of recorded dialogue from his time voicing Woody, Hanks noted that AI could potentially stitch together new lines from his past performances. He also acknowledged that Disney may not even need him if it decides to make Toy Story 6, as the studio could use AI to recreate the beloved character's voice.
Hanks' comments come as he prepares to reprise his role as Woody in Toy Story 5, which has set a franchise record with its massive $312 million worldwide opening. The film brings the Toy Story Universe into the technology age, where the toys are threatened by a smart device designed to help kids connect with each other in a virtual playground.