‘Toy Story 3’ Director Lee Unkrich Leaving Pixar After 25 Years

Lee Unkrich Pixar Toy Story

It is the end of an era as Pixar Animation Studios is set to bid a final farewell to Toy Story 3 Director Lee Unkrich.

Unkrich informed his fellow employees of his departure on Friday and in talking to The Hollywood Reporter, Unkrich clarified his decision:

“I’m not leaving to make films at another studio; instead, I look forward to spending much-needed time with my family and pursuing interests that have long been back-burner.”

Lee Unkrich started at the Emeryville, California-based studio 25 years ago as an editor on their maiden feature, Toy Story before taking on co-directorial responsibilities on the studio’s next three projects in Toy Story 2, Monsters Inc, and Finding Nemo. He would later direct his own features and take home two Academy Awards for Toy Story 3 and Coco.

The parting is reportedly amicable and the Oscar-winner is leaving on a high-note after Coco grossed over $807 million worldwide.

Lee Unkrich’s leave, of course, comes during a time of transition for Pixar. His mentor and Pixar co-founder John Lasseter was recently let go by Disney following allegations of sexual misconduct in the workplace.

What do you make of this news? Are you saddened by the loss of such a talented veteran? Or are you more excited to see some fresh faces come in and make a name for themselves? Let us know in the comments below!

Here is the synopsis for Toy Story 4:

Woody has always been confident about his place in the world and that his priority is taking care of his kid, whether that’s Andy or Bonnie. But when Bonnie adds a reluctant new toy called “Forky” to her room, a road trip adventure alongside old and new friends will show Woody how big the world can be for a toy.

Directed by Josh Cooley from a script written by Stephany Folsom, Toy Story 4 features the voice talents of Tom Hanks, Tim Allen, Annie Potts, Joan Cusack, Blake Clark, Wallace Shawn, John Ratzenberger, Estelle Harris, Jodi Benson, Michael Keaton, Jeff Pidgeon, Kristen Schaal, Bonnie Hunt, Timothy Dalton, Jeff Garlin, Laurie Metcalf, Lori Alan, Tony Hale, Keegan-Michael Key, Jordan Peele and Keanu Reeves.

Toy Story 4 opens on June 21, 2019.

Source: The Hollywood Reporter