3 questions with Toy Story 5’s Jeff Bergman, the new voice of Mr. Potato Head
Jeff Bergman has been announced as the new voice of Mr. Potato Head for Toy Story 5, taking over the iconic role originally portrayed by legendary comedian Don Rickles since the franchise’s 1995 debut. This casting news marks a significant milestone for the continuing franchise as it adapts to the loss of one of its most recognizable voices.
Mr. Potato Head holds a unique place in Toy Story history as one of the few characters based on an actual existing toy. The character has been a staple in toy boxes since its introduction in the 1950s, predating the film itself. When Pixar selected the character for the original movie, they paired it with Don Rickles, a pioneering insult comedian who had built his reputation throughout the 1950s before becoming a television fixture.
Rickles became particularly famous for his appearances on The Tonight Show, where he appeared regularly from the 1960s until his death in 2017. He brought his signature comedic persona to Mr. Potato Head—portraying the character as a loud, insulting personality that became iconic to the toy’s identity throughout the franchise’s multiple installments.
With Jeff Bergman stepping into the role, Toy Story 5 represents the franchise’s approach to recasting following Rickles’ passing, ensuring the beloved character remains a central part of the continuing story.