In Pixar’s 2013 short film Toy Story of Terror, what is the name of this super intense (but still lovable) military-based character? Bonus points if you also know the name of this character’s “one-third scale counterpart.”
Answer: Combat Carl
“Combat Carl never gives up. Combat Carl finds a way!”
This intense G.I. Joe-style action figure (and his one-third scale counterpart Combat Carl, Jr.) first appeared in a full role in this classic Pixar creep-fest.
But…did you know Combat Carl appeared in various forms in the original Toy Story film? Pieces of various disfigured Carls can be seen cobbled together (and pulled apart) in Andy’s neighbor Sid’s house. A different version of Carl is also seen leading a group of Green Army Men at another point in the film.
Pixar approached toymaking giant Hasbro about using G.I. Joe as a character for the original Toy Story film. Hasbro said no – not wanting to see their iconic action figures destroyed on film at the hands of Sid. Interestingly enough, actor Tom Hanks (the voice of our favorite deputy Woody) heard about this issue and suggested “Why don’t you just name him Combat Carl?” The rest is Toy Story history!
Editor’s Note: Sadly, Carl Weathers – the voice of Combat Carl, and most well known for is roles as Apollo Creed in the Rocky franchise and Greef Karga in The Mandalorian, passed away on February 1, 2024. Thank you Carl, for a lifetime of intense inspiration!
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