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Entertainment June 25, 2026

Tom Hanks' Toy Story Legacy in Question as Woody's Mysterious Voice Actor Speaks Out

Tom Hanks' Toy Story Legacy in Question as Woody's Mysterious Voice Actor Speaks Out

Tom Hanks may be the face of Woody in the Toy Story franchise, but it's his brother Jim who has been the voice of the beloved cowboy for 30 years.

Jim Hanks, 65, revealed the surprising fact in an interview, saying that he's been voicing Woody for all the merchandise, toys, and games related to the character, rather than his famous brother.

'Someone said to me, "I feel like your voice is more Woody than Tom's,"' Jim said. 'Of course, the brothers were together '24-7' as children, so naturally they'd have similar tones.'

Mandatory Berliner Studio / BEImages

While Tom brought Woody to life on-screen, Jim has been working behind the scenes to keep the character's legacy alive. He's proud to be a part of the franchise and has been doing voiceover work for years, including roles in Scrubs, Lois & Clark: The New Adventures of Superman, and Dexter.

Jim's voice has been featured in various Woody-related products, including toys and games. He's also played Tom's body double in Forrest Gump, the film that won his brother the best actor Oscar.

Despite being associated with Tom, Jim has faced challenges in his on-camera career, with people often comparing him to his more famous brother. However, he's pivoted into doing voiceover work and writing, finding success in both areas.

This image released by Disney shows characters Buzz Lightyear, voiced by Tim Allen, left, and Woody, voiced by Tom Hanks, in a scene from "Toy Story 5." (Pixar-Disney via AP)

Jim is now supporting ODEON Cinemas' Play It Forward campaign, which encourages people to donate unused toys to children who don't have any. He believes in the importance of giving toys a new home and continuing their life cycle.

As for Tom's future involvement in the franchise, Jim thinks his brother will likely continue to voice Woody, rather than using AI. However, he's happy to step in if needed and keep the magic of Toy Story alive.

The Play It Forward campaign is running at participating ODEON cinemas across the UK this weekend. People can bring in well-loved toys and donate them to kids in need.

Jim says he's very protective' of Woody, the character he has voiced since the 90s (Picture: Jim Hanks)

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