Disney has always been known for its animated blockbusters, as the behemoth studio continues producing tear inducing adventures for the big screen. There are a number of highly anticipated sequels coming down the pipeline, including Frozen 2 and Toy Story 4. The latter will catch audiences up with Andy's toys, as they continue life under the care of Bonnie. The entire cast is set to reprise their roles, including Annie Potts returning as Bo Peep. But there was a big question regarding the role of Mr. Potato Head, played by the late Don Rickles.
Legendary comic Don Rickles passed away in April of 2017 of kidney failure, and it was a loss felt by his generations of fans and the comedy community. And since he didn't record his dialogue before dying, it was unclear whether or not he would reprise his role in Toy Story 4, of if Disney was going to have to recast. But director Josh Cooley calmed those fears on social media, updating the fandom with:
Now this is exciting. Despite his death, Don Rickles will still be joining the rest of the Toy Story cast for the highly anticipated sequel. Of course, some moviegoers may be wondering how they managed to work the comic into the film.
Josh Cooley's tweet is sure to make the generations of Toy Story fans very happy. Mr. Potato Head has been a scene stealer since the original 1995 classic, and it just wouldn't be the same without Don Rickles' iconic performance as the disgruntled spud. Potato Head adds a level of cynicism to the group dynamic, even if it's sometimes at Woody's expense. What's more, his family unit with Mrs. Potato Head and the claw aliens is always the source of laughs.
Regarding how Don Rickles will be brought back for Toy Story 4, director Josh Cooley didn't offer any specifics. Rickles' name wasn't included in the original cast list, so perhaps Pixar only recently landed on the plan of action to include him as Potato Head. Smart money says the project will use archived footage from the first three films, and therefore allow Rickles' inclusion in the project. Considering this is being done in live-action for Carrie Fisher in Star Wars Episode IX, the animated version of using unused audio seems far more easy.
Toy Story 4 is going to break new ground for the franchise, bringing the iconic group of toys on a road trip with Bonnie's family. This seems to ups the stakes, as it would be easy for one of the group to get left behind. The sequel will also bring back Annie Potts' Bo Peep, who was abandoned by Andy's sister before the events of the threequel. And she's looking decidedly more badass.
The cast has teased big things for Toy Story 4, which will no doubt shatter out hearts just as it did with the last movie. Although it is exciting that Don Rickles' iconic comedy will be present in the upcoming project.
Toy Story 4 will hit theaters on June 21, 2019. In the meantime, check out our 2019 release list to plan your next trip to the movies.
