South African Afrobeat superstar Tyla has officially joined the Disney Pixar family. She will be the voice behind the fabulous Inflatable Flamingo, a brand-new character in Toy Story 5.
The Grammy-winning “Water” crooner is making her Disney voice-acting debut in the Sub-Saharan African localised version of the film. Tyla shared how Toy Story was a huge part of her childhood. Now, she’s helping kids across Africa see and hear themselves in one of the most beloved franchises ever. A full circle kind of thing.
SEE ALSO: ‘I Tried to Speak to Her’: Was Tyla Snubbed by Rihanna? 
Tyla’s involvement is a representation that resonates. Although it’s a cameo appearance, kids in Africa now get a version that feels closer to home, and we celebrate another barrier-breaking moment for African artists in Hollywood.
Toy Story 5 is coming to the cinemas on June 19, 2026, and it doesn’t look like your regular nostalgia trip. You are about to see a sassy, pink inflatable flamingo floating into Bonnie’s world, speaking and bringing those cool rhythms that only Tyla can deliver.
There are other new additions like Greta Lee as Lilypad (the disruptive tablet), Conan O’Brien and Craig Robinson. Even global stars like Bad Bunny (voicing Pizza with Sunglasses) and Keanu Reeves are making it a star-studded adventure.
Toy Story 5 remains a story of friendship, loyalty, and growing up. This time, however, Woody and the toys are facing off against shiny new tech toys. It also spotlights change and what it means to be “played with” in a digital age.
If you grew up with Toy Story, including Woody’s drawl and Buzz’s “To infinity and beyond,” then get ready for your childhood to level up in the most vibrant way possible.
About The Author
