Disney utilized a “decoy version” of the upcoming film Toy Story 5 to keep Taylor Swift’s musical contribution a secret from the majority of the production team. While the film is scheduled for release on June 19, 2026, the involvement of the global pop superstar was only officially confirmed in the days leading up to the premiere, following months of intense speculation within her fan base.
Thomas Jordan, a VFX supervisor who worked on the production, disclosed that even many staff members were unaware of the collaboration until the final stages of the project. Speaking at a panel at SXSW London, Jordan explained that a “very small group” had access to the version of the film featuring the song, while press and other staffers were shown a different cut that omitted the track. The secret was maintained from February 2026, when the song was finalized, until the public announcement.
The track, titled “I Knew It, I Knew You,” was written and produced by Swift alongside Jack Antonoff. Swift stated that she was inspired to write the song after viewing an early cut of the film, noting that the composition process felt like both a “musical departure and coming home at the same time.” The song is performed from the perspective of the character Jessie, reflecting the artist’s return to her country roots.
The production of Toy Story 5 has been a multi-year effort, and the secrecy surrounding Swift’s involvement was a deliberate strategy to control the rollout of the project. In May 2026, anticipation was further heightened when Swift posted a cryptic countdown on her official website, which many fans correctly identified as a precursor to the reveal.
Regarding her connection to the franchise, Swift shared via social media: “I’ve always dreamed of getting to write for these characters who I’ve adored since I was a five year old kid watching the first Toy Story movie. I fell instantly in love with Toy Story 5 when I was lucky enough to see it in its early stages, and I wrote this song as soon as I got home from the screening.”
Expanding the Toy Story Universe
The narrative of the fifth installment picks up after the conclusion of the previous film, which saw Woody depart to stay with Bo Peep. Jessie has stepped into the role of leader within Bonnie’s room, supported by Buzz Lightyear, who serves as her second-in-command. The plot introduces a new dynamic with a frog-like tablet toy named Lilypad, who has become the primary focus of Bonnie’s attention.
The film also features the voice of Bad Bunny, who portrays a character named “Pizza With Sunglasses.” This character is depicted as a forgotten toy residing in an abandoned backyard shed, adding a new layer to the franchise’s exploration of what it means to be a toy in a changing world.
The effort to maintain secrecy around high-profile additions, such as Swift’s involvement, underscores the scale and anticipation surrounding the Toy Story franchise. With the film’s release date set for June 19, 2026, audience interest remains high as the studio prepares to debut the latest chapter in the long-running series.
As the industry looks toward the upcoming premiere, fans are encouraged to share their expectations for the film’s soundtrack and the new character additions. Official updates regarding ticket sales and premiere events can be found on the studio’s primary media channels.