Joan Cusack and Jessie Take the Lead in ‘Toy Story 5’

Joan Cusack expressed her excitement over Jessie, the cowgirl doll she voices, taking center stage in “Toy Story 5.” After 27 years since her introduction, Jessie is finally leading the charge, thanks in part to Cusack’s influence on the character’s development.

Cusack, who has voiced Jessie since her debut in “Toy Story 2” in 1999, shared her enthusiasm during a recent call from Pixar headquarters. “I was so excited,” she said. She felt the character represented a compelling story for young girls.

Since her introduction, Jessie has appeared in various “Toy Story” films, TV specials, a short film series, video games, and theme park rides. In the newest installment, she teams up with Buzz Lightyear, Woody, and their friends to face Lilypad, a smart tablet with a frog-like face.

The development of Jessie has been interesting. Initially, the character was a talking cactus named Señorita Cactus, intended as a sidekick for the Prospector. Cusack, surprised by this early concept, has contributed significantly to shaping Jessie into the energizing character beloved by fans.

Beyond her role as Jessie, Cusack is known for her comedic talent in films like “Working Girl” and “In & Out.” She also appeared on “Saturday Night Live” in the mid-1980s. Despite her notable career, she chose to step back from Hollywood to raise her children. In Chicago, she runs a gift shop, providing her a creative outlet while remaining close to home.

In discussing her impact on Jessie in “Toy Story 3,” Cusack recalled a key suggestion she made about the character’s development. Her decision to open a gift shop was inspired by a desire to maintain a creative presence while prioritizing family life.