In Toy Story, Andy grows from childhood to his college years, but since only his mother is shown, many fans wonder, "Where is Andy's dad in Toy Story?" Andy's best friend in the movies is his cowboy doll Woody, and one theory posits that Woody first belonged to Andy's absent father.
The first movie showed Andy as a child, with the toys as his beloved companions. While Andy would eventually grow up and pass on his toys to Bonnie, and Woody would end up going off to a free outdoor life at the end of Toy Story 4, it's safe to say Woody will always have a special place in his heart for Andy, and vice versa. There may be an extra reason for their attachment to each other: Woody previously belonged to Andy's father, raising the question of where Andy's dad is in Toy Story.
How Woody Could Have Belonged To Andy's Dad
Woody in Toy Story 4 and Andy in Toy Story 3 - How Woody Could Have Belonged To Andy's Dad
Andy's dad is notably absent from the Toy Story films, with no explanation given. Various theories have emerged to fill in the gap, with some suggesting that Andy's parents may have gone through a divorce. One theory, shared by Mike Mozart on the Super Carlin Brothers YouTube channel in 2017, proposes that Andy's dad passed away before the events of Toy Story 1 due to a battle with polio.
According to Mozart, Joe Ranft, a Pixar employee who worked on Toy Story 1, disclosed to him that Andy's dad shared the same name and that Sheriff Woody's name was actually carved by Andy Sr. in the 1950s. Despite Andy Sr.'s toys being burned after his battle with polio, Woody was spared and hidden away. As Andy grew up, got married, and had a son, the theory suggests that he later developed post-polio syndrome, ultimately leading to his untimely death after the birth of his daughter, Molly.
Andy Sr. came into possession of a one-of-a-kind prototype doll. Before passing away, he entrusted Woody to Andy, revealing the doll's rarity in Toy Story 2. Some believe the doll was created specifically for Andy Sr. when he was very ill as a child. This theory has gained popularity, with even Mozart claiming it to be true. However, Toy Story writer and Finding Nemo director Andrew Stanton has refuted the theory on social media, calling it "fake news."
The Theory Explains Why Woody Is So Loyal
It's unfortunate that Ranft is not available to comment on Mozart's assertions, as he tragically passed away in a car crash in 2005 at the age of 45. While the theory that Woody belonged to Andy's dad is fairly plausible, and Andy's mom does even refer to Woody as "an old family toy," the way it patches up several Toy Story franchise plot holes seems a bit overly convenient. Plus, Stanton denouncing it so forcefully wouldn't make sense if it was true. For now, Andy's dad remains a mystery.
Woody being made to wave goodbye by Andy in Toy Story 3 - The Theory Explains Why Woody Is So Loyal
Woody's loyalty to Andy in Toy Story is unmatched. Some may say it's because he originally belonged to Andy's dad. Compared to the other toys, Woody's determination to always be with Andy stands out. He goes to great lengths to ensure he is never separated from his owner, even when new toys try to take his place. This unwavering loyalty can be better understood when considering the possibility that he was initially Andy's dad's toy, especially if his dad passed away from Polio.
Woody's priority is to remain loyal to his original child owner while also supporting his current one. Despite being played with less than other toys, Woody's main goal is to be there for Andy Sr.'s son as a trusted sheriff. Andy Sr. may have entrusted Woody to watch over his son, unaware of the strong bond that would form between them.
The theory about Polio can also shed light on why Woody from Toy Story never recalled the TV show Woody's Round-Up. Since he was mostly at the hospital with Andy's dad, it's possible there was no TV from the 1950s around. In conclusion, this theory makes sense and clarifies why the toy is incredibly devoted to its owner.
Editor's P/S:
This article provides an intriguing theory regarding the whereabouts of Andy's father in the "Toy Story" franchise. The idea that Woody, Andy's beloved cowboy doll, may have originally belonged to his absent father is both plausible and emotionally resonant. The theory suggests a deeper connection between Andy and Woody, a bond forged through shared loss and the enduring legacy of Andy's father.
However, it's important to note that the article's claims regarding Joe Ranft's disclosure and Andrew Stanton's refutation are not universally accepted. While some fans embrace the theory, others remain skeptical due to the lack of concrete evidence. Ultimately, whether or not you believe this particular theory is up to your interpretation and the evidence you find most compelling. Nonetheless, it's a thought-provoking exploration that adds a new layer of depth to the beloved "Toy Story" universe.
