Pixar has released a first look at Emily, Jessie’s original owner, ahead of the upcoming Toy Story 5. The new images and clips mark the first time Emily has been visually depicted in the franchise. The film is scheduled for theatrical release on June 19, 2026, continuing the series’ legacy of exploring the relationship between children and their toys.
First look at Emily in ‘TOY STORY 5.’
She was Jessie’s first owner. pic.twitter.com/V36xc4LKQ4
— The Hollywood Handle (@HollywoodHandle) June 4, 2026
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The promotional clips show Emily as a child, hugging and playing with Jessie, before eventually leaving her behind at a donation spot.
Context within the Franchise
Emily was first referenced in Toy Story 2 (1999) during a flashback that showed Jessie’s childhood and her eventual separation from her owner. While the original film provided only glimpses of her as a child, audiences had never seen a full portrayal of the character. The reveal in Toy Story 5 offers new context for Jessie’s backstory and expands the narrative established over two decades ago, providing continuity between the earlier films and the latest installment.
Jessie in Toy Story 2 – Disney+
The Toy Story franchise is produced by Pixar Animation Studios and distributed by Walt Disney Studios Motion Pictures. Toy Story 5 reunites longtime cast members, including Joan Cusack as Jessie, Tom Hanks as Woody, and Tim Allen as Buzz Lightyear.
The film also introduces new characters and plot elements connected to the evolving ways children interact with toys, including the tension between traditional toys and digital devices.
Taylor Swift Contributes Original Song
As part of the promotional campaign, Taylor Swift released an original track titled “I Knew It, I Knew You”. The song, which debuted on June 5, 2026, is tied to Jessie’s storyline. Swift co-wrote the track with Jack Antonoff, and it reflects a return to some of her country-inspired roots.
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The lyrics to the song seem to be from Jesse’s perspective. They reminisce on her days with Emily as a child, the grief of losing her, and their reunion all these years later.
[Bridge]: Oh, the rivers I cried when we said goodbye
Wondering if I’d made it up in my mind
But now you look me in the eye[Chorus]: I remembered I loved you
Came back when it mattered, I saw you
Standing there in the light of the window wearing that same smile
Man, it’s been a while
But I knew it, I knew you
Early Public Reaction
Audience reactions to the first look at Emily have been mixed. Some viewers are anticipating an emotionally resonant exploration of Jessie’s past. They are hoping to see the two united, with many theorizing who Emily is.
Jessie in Toy Story of Terror – Disney+
Others recall the events of Toy Story 2 and maintain negative associations with Emily due to Jessie’s abandonment, expressing limited interest in her return. Many Toy Story fans have grown up only knowing Jesse and her perspective of loss. They are not interested in redeeming the child who seemingly left her beloved toy in a box by the street.
Context and Upcoming Release
Marketing for Toy Story 5 has emphasized themes of nostalgia and change, exploring how traditional toys coexist with modern digital play devices. Promotional material has also highlighted the return of familiar characters while teasing new ones. The franchise’s consistent focus on emotional bonds between children and toys remains central to public discussion.
Additional promotional content, interviews, and previews are expected in the weeks leading up to the June 19 release. The first look at Emily teases the newest installment in the Tory Story franchise.
What do you think of the first look at Emily for the upcoming Toy Story 5? Are you excited to learn more about Jesse’s first owner or disinterested in the whole story? Let us know your thoughts in the comments below.
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