Tom Hanks confirms Toy Story 4 is in the works!

Los Angeles - Tom Hanks has confirmed Toy Story 4 is in production.

The 52-year-old actor has begun recording the voiceover for his role as Woody in the fictional franchise, with the film being lined up for release in two years' time.

Speaking on Britain's The Graham Norton Show, he said: "We're now recording Toy Story 4, so we're doing that and it'll be out in 2018. It takes a long time. We're working on it right now. I have a recording session on 2 December."

However, despite having years of experience portraying the smart-talking sheriff, Hanks has admitted he still finds the task really strenuous on his diaphragm.

He explained: "It's very hard work animating these films. Honestly, it is because the recording sessions go on for four or five hours ... and my diaphragm gets a work out.

"I'm driving home and I literally have to put an ice pack on my chest because it's clenched throughout."

Meanwhile, despite openly admitting the ball has started rolling for the next Toy Story movie, the handsome star believes he'll get into trouble for revealing too many details.

He explained: "Somebody stuck a microphone in my face one day and said, 'Is there going to be a Toy Story 4?' and I said, 'Yeah, yeah, I think so.'

"And I got a call from the Disney lawyers the next day who said, 'You are contractually not allowed to discuss a Toy Story 4 or it'll affect the stock market price of the Disney comic stock.' and I just said, 'Hey, I'm sorry.' "

Watch the interview here: