Oscar-winner Tom Hanks, known for voicing Woody in Toy Story 5, suggested that voice actors have the potential to win Oscars in acting categories at the long-standing award show. Hanks highlighted the possibility of a voice actor clinching the Best Actor award, emphasizing that any performance that resonates emotionally could be recognized.
Using Andy Serkis as an example, Hanks praised his work in franchises like Lord of the Rings and Planet of the Apes, noting that despite not appearing on screen, Serkis provides the essential material for his characters. Hanks expressed that pure-vocal actors, like Serkis, could also be considered for prestigious nominations.
As Hanks reprises his role as Woody in Toy Story 5, set to premiere on June 19 in theaters, he reflected on the lack of recognition for voice actors in traditional acting categories at the Academy Awards. Despite the inception of the Best Animated Feature category in 2002, no voice actor has secured an acting award since the Oscars’ establishment in 1929.
The Toy Story franchise, which began in 1995 with the release of the first animated feature film, has evolved over the years, captivating audiences with its beloved characters like Sheriff Woody and Buzz Lightyear. With a total of six animated feature films, including Toy Story 5 and the upcoming spin-off Lightyear, the franchise continues to enchant fans worldwide.
