If you need any more proof that words have power, look no further than global pop-R&B sensation Tyla. As Pixar’s highly anticipated Toy Story 5 officially storms into cinemas worldwide, South African fans are in for a massive treat: the Grammy-winning “Water” hitmaker has officially joined the iconic Disney family.
Tyla lends her unmistakable voice to a vibrant new character named Inflatable Flamingo, specifically added to the Sub-Saharan African theatrical release of the movie.
As audiences rush to theaters to catch up with childhood favorites Woody and Buzz Lightyear, internet sleuths have quickly unearthed a prophetic social media post from the singer’s past.
The Tweet That Started It All
Back on October 18, 2023, right as her musical career was exploding onto the global stage, Tyla casually took to X (formerly Twitter) and wrote a simple seven-word message:
“Disney, hit me up when you free.”
At the time, it seemed like a fun, ambitious throwaway line. But fast-forward three years, and the multi-billion-dollar entertainment giant did exactly that.
During a recent interview on 947 FM’s Anele and the Club, host Anele Mdoda surprised Tyla by reading her old tweet back to her. The singer burst out laughing, admitting she had completely forgotten about her public manifestation.
Recalling the moment her life changed, Tyla explained:
“I got the news from my team and they were like, ‘Disney reached out and they want you to voice the Flamingo for the African version of Toy Story,’ and I said yes straight away!”
A Surreal Childhood Dream Fulfilled
For the Joburg-born star, who grew up binging the original Pixar classics, stepping into the recording booth for a major franchise was a surreal experience that turned her into an eager fan all over again.
“When I was asked to join the production of Toy Story 5, I was so excited,” Tyla beamed. “This is like the first time I was on the managers every day like, ‘What’s happening on Toy Story?’ I just couldn’t believe that the offer was even presented to me. It’s literally Toy Story—I’m with Woody and Buzz Lightyear!”
Beyond adding another massive accolade to her ever-growing resume, the role represents a monumental moment of cultural representation for the continent.
“Toy Story has been such a special part of my childhood, so being part of this film is a full-circle moment for me,” Tyla reflected. “I’m incredibly excited for audiences to experience it, and it means so much to know that African viewers will hear an African voice bringing one of these beloved characters to life.”
With Toy Story 5 now playing across cinemas nationwide, Tyla’s leap from tweeting Disney to standing alongside cinematic royalty proves that sometimes, the universe really is listening.
