Taylor Swift and Randy Newman perform 'You’ve Got a Friend in Me' duet at Toy Story 5 premiere
She's got a friend in him 🎹🥰
Last updated 4 hours ago
After Taylor Swift released her new song 'I Knew It, I Knew You' for Toy Story 5 on 5th June 2026, fans spent days speculating whether she’d show up for the world premiere at the Dolby Theatre in Hollywood on 9th June. Taylor Swift arrived in secret, stunned 3,000 fans with a surprise debut, and then turned the Dolby Theatre into a personal concert stage.
But the real twist? She didn’t stop at one song - and as the lights dimmed and the credits rolled, another legend emerged from behind the screen. In the second big reveal of the night, another screen lifted to show Randy Newman already seated at his piano, playing the familiar intro to 'You’ve Got a Friend in Me'.
Who is Randy Newman?
Randy Newman is the renowned singer-songwriter and composer who created 'You’ve Got a Friend in Me', the iconic theme of the entire Toy Story franchise. He’s been called the "architect of the Toy Story Musical Universe" by Taylor herself - known for his ability to pull heartstrings, spark laughter, and make millions feel like he’s a friend.
What did Randy Newman and Taylor Swift sing?
Randy and Taylor performed a timeless duet of 'You’ve Got a Friend in Me'. Randy kicked off the first verse, and Taylor joined in on the second. When she sang: "Some other folks might be a little bit smarter than I am", Randy jokingly interjected: "No one’s smarter than you!" -winning laughs and cheers from the crowd.
READ MORE: Toy Story 5 drops final trailer as Bad Bunny joins the gang in cameo role
Where did they perform?
The duo performed at the Toy Story 5 world premiere at the Dolby Theatre in Hollywood on 9th June 9 2026. Taylor had just live-debuted her new song, and tribute to Jessie 'I Knew It, I Knew You' over the film’s end credits, and she invited Randy to celebrate the musical legacy of the franchise.
What is Toy Story 5 about?
Toy Story 5 reunites Woody, Buzz, Jessie, and the gang as they face a new challenge: technology. Bonnie becomes obsessed with a frog-shaped smart tablet called Lilypad, leaving her traditional toys feeling forgotten. Jessie struggles to lead Bonnie’s toys as playtime shifts toward screens, while Woody returns to help his old friends.
Together, they confront questions about relevance, friendship, and purpose in a world where children increasingly prefer digital entertainment. The film explores the clash between classic toys and modern technology, showing that while times change, the bonds between friends can endure.
When is out?
Toy Story 5 is releasing in cinemas on 19th June 2026.
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Take a look Disney's upcoming films:
Toy Story 5
Release date: 19th June 2026
Cast: Tom Hanks as Woody and Tim Allen as Buzz Lightyear are joined by Joan Cusack as Jessie and Tony Hale as Forky from previous films, plus Ernie Hudson as Combat Carl, Conan O'Brien as Smarty Pants and Anna Faris as Lilypad.
Synopsis: Pixar's website says: 'The toys are back in Disney and Pixar's Toy Story 5, and this time it's Toy meets Tech. Buzz, Woody, Jessie and the rest of the gang's jobs are challenged when they're introduced to what kids are obsessed with today....electronics!'
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Synopsis: Nothing has been announced just yet!
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