Mattel CEO Shoots Down An ‘Odd’ Barney Movie Rumor

«Barney» isn’t some rush job spawned by the success of the «Barbie» movie. The film based on the TV series that once featured a young Selena Gomez and Demi Lovato was announced in 2019. Daniel Kaluuya touted the original children’s series’ message in a statement to The Hollywood Reporter, teasing, «Barney was a ubiquitous figure in many of our childhoods, then he disappeared into the shadows, left misunderstood. We’re excited to explore this compelling modern-day hero and see if his message of ‘I love you, you love me’ can stand the test of time.»

Ahead of the movie’s release, Mattel has embarked on a «Barney» relaunch. New Barney toys will be coming out in 2024 as part of a fresh take on the purple dino that will also include an animated TV series, books, and clothing and accessories geared toward kids and adults. However, Ynon Kreiz told Semafor that movie tie-ins aren’t a marketing ploy to sell more toys but a genuine effort to create quality content. «We are collaborating with the best people out there and they run with the ball,» the Mattel CEO said. «It’s one thing for us to say, ‘we will make the next Hot Wheels movie.’ It’s another thing to say, ‘J.J. Abrams will make the next Hot Wheels movie.’»