'Toy Story 4' News: Sequel to be Released in 2017, Film Details Revealed

It's been confirmed: "Toy Story" is coming back for its fourth installment.

After the emotional ending of "Toy Story 3" wherein a college-bound Andy gives his toys to a young girl, fans of the franchise thought that this was the end as they said goodbye to Woody, Buzz, and the rest of the toys. Many people felt that it was the perfect way to end the story, and are hesitant about anything that may ruin it.

John Lasseter, who is back on board to direct the upcoming film, immediately released a statement to dispel fears that the sequel won't live up to the third movie in the franchise.

"We love these characters so much; they are like family to us," said Lasseter. "We don't want to do anything with them unless it lives up to or surpasses what's gone before."

The new story was created by the original "Toy Story" team of Lasseter, Andrew Stanton, Pete Docter, and Lee Unkrich. Rashida Jones and Will McCormack will also be joining the writing team.

"When Andrew, Pete, Lee and I came up with this new idea, I just could not stop thinking about it," Lasseter said. "It was so exciting to me, I knew we had to make this a movie—and I wanted to direct it myself."

The announcement was made by Walt Disney CEO Bob Iger during a meeting for investors on Thursday.

"John created Toy Story and directed the first two films, and it's great to have him back directing one of our most valuable properties," said Iger.

The movie's plot has not been revealed, but Lasseter has reportedly told the Los Angeles Times that "Toy Story 4" will be a love story and will pick up where the last movie left off.

"Toy Story 4" is slated for release in June 2017.