Taylor Swift confirms original song for Toy Story 5

WASHINGTON: Taylor Swift has said she wrote an original song for Disney and Pixar’s upcoming film Toy Story 5, ending weeks of online speculation about whether she was involved in the project.

In a post on X on Monday, the 14-time Grammy winner announced that her new track, I Knew It, I Knew You, will be released on June 5. Swift also said she had adored the characters of the Toy Story franchise since the first film was released in 1995.

The announcement followed days of fan speculation after a countdown timer appeared on Swift’s official website against a backdrop resembling the wallpaper from Andy’s bedroom in the original Toy Story film. Fans also highlighted animated visuals on her website showing billboards marked with the initials TS alongside Jessie, one of the franchise’s best-known characters.

The timer, which was set to end on June 1, prompted widespread discussion on social media. Interest grew further after billboards featuring the same background design and the initials TS appeared in major cities across several countries, leading many fans to suspect a collaboration between Swift and Pixar.

Film release date and fan speculation

According to Disney and Pixar, Toy Story 5 is due for worldwide theatrical release on June 17. The film brings back Woody, Buzz Lightyear and the rest of the toy characters as they face challenges linked to modern technology, particularly a tablet device competing for children’s attention.

Alongside the film speculation, some fans also connected recent Disney+ social media activity to rumours of a wider partnership with Swift. Online discussion included suggestions that the streaming platform could host recordings of her earlier concert tours, although no official announcement has been made on that front.

Swift’s confirmation has resolved the main question surrounding the countdown campaign, with attention now turning to the release of the song later this week.