Tom Hanks Says Taylor Swift’s Toy Story 5 Song Was Kept Top Secret

Tom Hanks said he and the rest of the cast were kept in the dark about Taylor Swift’s original song for “Toy Story 5” until the moment Disney chose to reveal it. Speaking at the Los Angeles premiere of the film on Wednesday night, Hanks told Variety that the studio brought the cast into a soundproof room and informed them that the movie’s end-credits song would be released that night and that it was performed by Swift. He said the secrecy was complete enough that they had already watched the film with a temporary placeholder track instead of the final song.

Hanks described Swift’s participation as a major event for the franchise, comparing it to the kind of surprise that would come from a legendary performer like Judy Garland. He said having a global superstar contribute to the film was a “delight” and underscored the scale of the collaboration.

Disney had hinted at Swift’s involvement before the official announcement, but the song was not formally revealed until June 1, when a “Toy Story”-themed countdown appeared on Swift’s website. The track, titled “I Knew It, I Knew You,” was later confirmed as part of the film’s end titles.

“Toy Story 5” brings back Woody, Jessie and Buzz as they confront a new technological threat affecting their playtime with Bonnie. The returning voice cast includes Hanks, Tim Allen and Joan Cusack. The new ensemble features Greta Lee, Keanu Reeves, Craig Robinson, Alan Cumming, Conan O’Brien and Bad Bunny.

Hanks also discussed Woody’s condition in the film, saying the character is away from his friends at the start of the story while helping rescue toys that were discarded by their owners. After years of adventures, Woody has developed a bald spot beneath his cowboy hat. Hanks said the detail felt believable for a toy that has been through so much, joking that the wear and tear made sense because the hat is constantly on and off and the stuffing inside would naturally shift over time.

“Toy Story 5” is scheduled to open in theaters on June 19.