Although beloved actor Carl Weathers passed away earlier this year, his iconic Toy Story character, Combat Carl, will live on — now voiced by none other than Ernie Hudson.
Sources close to the production reveal that the “Ghostbusters” legend has officially been cast to carry on the role of Combat Carl in the upcoming Toy Story 5, set to release next summer.
A Fitting Tribute to a Hollywood Legend
Combat Carl — a tough, military-style action figure reminiscent of G.I. Joe — was a perfect fit for Weathers, whose unforgettable roles in Predator and the Rocky franchise made him a natural choice for the character’s bold, heroic persona.
Weathers originally voiced Combat Carl in Toy Story of Terror, where the character quickly became a fan favorite for his courage, loyalty, and motivational pep talks.
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Honoring Carl Weathers’ Legacy
Carl Weathers passed away in February at the age of 76 due to atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease, surrounded by his loved ones. His death came as a shock to many in the industry, as the actor was still actively working on major projects like The Mandalorian for Disney+.
Now, Disney and Pixar have chosen Ernie Hudson — a respected actor in his own right — to respectfully carry on the voice of Combat Carl, ensuring the character’s legacy lives on in the franchise.
Ernie Hudson Steps Into the Role
Known for his role as Winston Zeddemore in the Ghostbusters films, Ernie Hudson brings both charisma and heart to the screen — making him a perfect choice to continue Weathers’ legacy. His debut as Combat Carl in Toy Story 5 will no doubt be a moment that tugs at fans’ emotions while honoring one of Hollywood’s most versatile actors.
With Toy Story 5 expected to hit theaters next summer, fans can look forward to seeing the legacy of Carl Weathers carried forward in powerful and heartfelt fashion.
