Joan Cusack says Jessie’s signature “Yeehaw!” catchphrase in the Toy Story films did not always come naturally to her, but over time it became one of her favorite things to say. Cusack has voiced Jessie since Toy Story 2, when the character joined Woody’s Roundup gang, and she has continued playing the role across the franchise’s movies, shorts, video games, specials and promotional appearances.
Speaking at a Walt Disney World event tied to Disney’s Cool Kids’ Summer celebration, Cusack reflected on how her relationship with Jessie’s famous exclamation has changed over the years. She said that at first she felt she was saying “Yeehaw” too often, but the phrase eventually became something she genuinely enjoyed. She joked that she now even signs emails with it, showing how fully she has embraced the role and the character’s playful energy.
The timing comes as Toy Story 5 approaches and Jessie is expected to play a bigger part in the story. Reports around the film suggest that Jessie will move into a more central role, likely giving Cusack even more chances to deliver the character’s familiar “yeehaw” and other western-style expressions. The film is set to continue the long-running story of Woody, Jessie, Buzz Lightyear and the other toys as they face a new challenge.
According to the film’s setup, Jessie will be working with old friends, including Woody, to help save Bonnie’s toys from a new threat. The central conflict reportedly involves technology taking over playtime, with Greta Lee voicing Lily Pad, a character tied to that modern challenge. The story appears to revisit emotional themes that have long defined the series, including the bond between toys and children and the fear of being forgotten.
The article also raises a concern about Bonnie’s connection to Jessie, drawing a parallel to Jessie’s earlier history with Emily. In the Toy Story universe, Jessie’s backstory remains one of the franchise’s most emotional arcs, and fans are hopeful that the new film will not repeat the pain of being left behind. That emotional tension is part of what has made Jessie such a lasting and beloved character.
Cusack’s comments suggest that she is comfortable with Jessie’s most recognizable trait and may lean into it even more in the new movie. As Toy Story 5 brings Jessie into a more prominent role, audiences can expect the character’s trademark enthusiasm, humor and emotion to remain front and center. The film opens in theaters on June 19.
