Lee Unkrich, the director of hit Pixar films like Toy Story 3 and Coco, has confirmed today that he has left Pixar Studios. Fans on the internet agree that he is leaving on a high note, as both Coco and Toy Story 3 won Best Animated Feature at the Academy Awards, as well as numerous other awards for Best Original Song and Best Directing Of An Animated Feature.

After twenty-five incredible years, I’ve decided to leave Pixar.

The time has come for new adventures. pic.twitter.com/0KZyHXhs8L

— Lee Unkrich (@leeunkrich) January 18, 2019

He spoke to the Hollywood Reporter about the departure saying:

“I’m not leaving to make films at another studio; instead, I look forward to spending much-needed time with my family and pursuing interests that have long been back-burnered”

Lee Unkrich started at Pixar over 25 years ago, where he was en editor on the original Toy Story film, and had a hand in crafting the stories for many of our Pixar favorites including Finding Nemo, and Monsters Inc, both of which he co-directed. His name is currently credited as “Story” on Toy Story 4 which is slated to release this Summer 2019. His carefully crafted stories and tear jerking moments are sure to be missed by fans.