Rashida Jones Explains Why She Isn't Writing Toy Story 4 Anymore

Rashida Jones is further elaborating on the creative differences that caused her to step down from writing Toy Story 4. The Parks and Recreation actress released a statement to The New York Times amidst sexual misconduct allegations against Pixar head John Lasseter, saying that she felt that the company was "a culture where women and people of color do not have an equal creative voice."

Lasseter announced Tuesday that he was taking a leave of absence from Pixar after saying he had "recently had a number of difficult conversations that have been very painful" about his "missteps." The Hollywood Reporter quickly published an article that detailed the alleged misconduct, kicking off by saying that Jones left Toy Story 4 after Lasseter made an "unwanted advance."

In a statement, Jones and her writing partner Will McCormack refuted that allegation, saying, "The breakneck speed at which journalists have been naming the next predator renders some reporting irresponsible. We did not leave Pixar because of unwanted advances. That is untrue. We parted ways because of creative and, more importantly, philosophical differences."

The pair continued by writing that there is "so much talent" at Pixar and that they continue to enjoy their films. However, they said that the company still has work to do when it comes to representation, with only one of their 20 films being directed by a woman and only one by a person of color. "We encourage Pixar to be leaders in bolstering, hiring, and promoting more diverse and female storytellers and leaders," they wrote. "We hope we can encourage all those who have felt like their voices could not be heard in the past to feel empowered."

A Disney spokesperson told Entertainment Weekly that the company is "committed to maintaining an environment in which all employees are respected and empowered to do their best work." They also noted that they "fully support" Lasseter's "sabbatical" and noted that they appreciate his "candor and sincere apology."

Toy Story 4 currently has a June 21, 2019 release date.