Joan Cusack Returns to Voice Jessie in 'Toy Story 5' After Years Away from Hollywood

Joan Cusack made her first movie premiere red carpet appearance in 11 years at the 'Toy Story 5' premiere Tuesday, marking her return to acting after a 6-year break. The actress stepped back from Hollywood to raise her family in Chicago and operate a gift shop, describing the lifestyle as "priceless." Cusack has voiced the character Jessie since the franchise's 1999 debut and continues in the fifth installment releasing June 19.
Joan Cusack attended the 'Toy Story 5' premiere at the Dolby Theatre in Hollywood on Tuesday, her first major red carpet event in 11 years and her return to acting after a 6-year absence. The 63-year-old actress explained her decision to step back from the industry, stating that while she feels honored by her long career, she prioritized living a normal life, raising her children, and being present in Chicago. Since 2014, Cusack has owned and operated a gift shop called Judy Maxwell Home in her native Chicago. She has voiced Jessie in the 'Toy Story' franchise since 1999 and never expected the role to become such a significant part of her career. The film also features a new end credits song by Taylor Swift titled "I Knew It, I Knew You," inspired by Jessie's story. 'Toy Story 5' releases in theaters June 19.
How coverage differed
The New York Post emphasized celebrity sightings and fashion details (Cusack's cream ensemble, Taylor Swift's corset dress), while Variety focused more on Cusack's career reflections and the film's plot details. Both outlets reported the same core facts identically.
What different sources said
- New York PostRight
Joan Cusack breaks down decision to ditch Hollywood before ‘Toy Story 5’ return
- VarietyCenter
Joan Cusack Walks First Movie Premiere Red Carpets in 11 Years and Says She Stopped Acting for 6 Years Because It’s ‘Priceless’ Being a ‘Normal Person’
- VarietyCenter
Joan Cusack Walks First Movie Premiere Red Carpets in 11 Years and Says She Stopped Acting for 6 Years Because It’s ‘Priceless’ Being a ‘Normal Person’
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