Some posts may contain affiliate links which means our team could earn money if you purchase products from our site.
ESPN and Toy Story Team Up for New Super Bowl LXI Campaign Ahead of Toy Story 5 Release
The road to Super Bowl LXI just got a whole lot more animated. ESPN has unveiled a brand-new installment in its “We’re Going” campaign, and this time it’s bringing the world of Toy Story 5 along for the ride.
Related: Disney Reveals First Look at Newly Redesigned Saratoga Springs Treehouse Villas
Debuting during Game 1 of the NBA Finals, the new spot titled Toy Story 5.5 blends ESPN personalities with Pixar magic as action figure versions of some of the network’s biggest stars spring to life and embark on an adventure from Bristol, Connecticut to Los Angeles, the future home of Super Bowl LXI in February 2027.
The commercial opens with ESPN hosts Laura Rutledge and Marcus Spears discussing preparations for the big game, noting that certain toy action figures have been left behind to “hold down the fort.” Naturally, those toys have other plans. In true Toy Story fashion, the figures come to life after the humans leave and set off on a cross-country journey alongside Woody, Buzz Lightyear, and the rest of Andy’s famous toy box crew.
The animated spot features toy versions of Joe Buck, Troy Aikman, Lisa Salters, Pat McAfee, Adam Schefter, Peyton Manning, Eli Manning, Randy Moss, Jason Kelce, and even ESPN mascot App-E. The crossover serves as both a celebration of ESPN’s upcoming Super Bowl coverage and a creative promotional tie-in for Disney and Pixar’s Toy Story 5, which arrives exclusively in theaters on June 19, 2026.
The commercial marks the third chapter in ESPN’s yearlong “We’re Going” campaign leading up to Super Bowl LXI. Previous entries included a post-Super Bowl kickoff spot highlighting Disney’s company-wide support for the event and an NFL Draft-themed commercial featuring Commissioner Roger Goodell announcing ESPN as the network’s pick for the big game.
Related: New Details Revealed for Monstropolis, which is starting to take shape at Hollywood Studios
The collaboration is part of ESPN’s broader “Year of the Super Bowl” initiative, which combines the storytelling power of ESPN, Disney, and the NFL through special programming, live events, podcasts, and unique creative campaigns designed to build excitement all the way to kickoff.
Get all the best Disney News
and more, straight to your inbox!
We don't spam. Read our privacy policy for more info.
For the BEST in Disney, Universal, Dollywood, and SeaWorld Theme Park News, Entertainment, Merchandise & More follow us on, Facebook, Instagram, and Youtube.
Let our friends at Get Away Today help you book your next Disney or Universal Vacation. They are the preferred Travel Agency of Chip and Company and Disney Addicts, and who we use ourselves.
