‘Toy Story 4’ Spoilers: Josh Cooley Promoted To Director, Teases One Major Plot

“Toy Story 4” will now be solely directed by former co-director Josh Cooley.

According to Entertainment Weekly, animation chief John Lasseter was the one who announced Cooley’s new role in the upcoming Disney/Pixar project. Initially, Lasseter was announced as director for “Toy Story 4.” He was also the one in charge of directing the first two installments in the “Toy Story” franchise. However, it was later on decided that Lasseter will serve as executive producer and Cooley, who was an intern at Pixar over a decade ago, will be the one to helm the animated film.

Read: “Toy Story” writer Andrew Stanton slams rumors Andy’s dad died of polio before 1995 film

As of late, not a lot of details about the “Toy Story 4” plot has been released. But Cooley generously shared that the events in the film could take place during a family vacation. He also said that his colleagues are busy with an RV trip for research at the moment. Previously, it has already been announced that “Toy Story 4” will explore the budding relationship between Woody and Bo Peep, as well as the reason behind her absence in the third installment.

Meanwhile, Cooley headed the hit Pixar movie, “Inside Out.” In addition, he was named one of Variety’s 10 animators to watch in 2015. Over a decade ago, he joined Pixar as an intern for the first “Cars” film.

Two years ago, he spoke with the publication to express his excitement over co-directing “Toy Story 4.” Little did he know at that time that he will be named director two years down the line. “To be co-director of ‘Toy Story 4’ with John, who brought the ‘Toy Story’ characters to the screen 20 years ago, is a dream come true. When I first saw ‘Toy Story,’ I was amazed by the groundbreaking computer generated-animation. But it was the strong storytelling that kept me coming back. ‘Toy Story 4’ will continue that tradition and I couldn’t be more excited to be a part of it!” he said.

The fourth installment will continue to feature Buzz Lightyear, Jessie, Dolly, Mrs. Davis, Buttercup, Barbie, Mrs. Potato Head, Slinky Dog, Chuckles the Clown, Squeeze Toy Aliens and more. “Toy Story 4” is slated to hit theaters in the United States on June 21, 2019.