Parents, you know it was only a matter of time before Barney returned to haunt your wallet and dreams. That’s right, folks. Barney, the Purple Dinosaur, is getting a makeover, and there’s nowhere to hide. Mattel announced its plans for a Barney reboot on Monday, with a new animated series, films, and toyline. I love you. You love me. Oh, God, the song is already in my head. Someone, make it stop!
Mattel‘s Barney reboot stomps onto the playground in 2024 with a reimagined animated series. Produced by Corus Entertainment’s Nelvana, the show aims to reintroduce preschool kids to the singing lizard, bringing messages of “love, community, and encouragement” told through music-filled adventures. Fred Soulie and Christopher Keenan executive produce for Mattel Television with Colin Bohm and Pam Westman of Nelvana.
Mattel is also planning a film, YouTube content, toys, books, musical albums, clothing, and more for Barney’s new reign. If you’re an old-school Barney fan, have no fear. Adult-oriented merchandise is also on the way. That’s right! Even if you’re in your 40s, you can show your love for Barney with new apparel inspired by Barney’s classic design. You’ll be the most popular parent at the bus stop!
“Barney’s message of love and kindness has stood the test of time,” said Josh Silverman, chief franchise officer and global head of consumer products at Mattel. “We will tap into the nostalgia of the generations who grew up with Barney, now parents themselves, and introduce the iconic purple dinosaur to a new generation of kids and families around the world across content, products, and experiences.”
“In creating the new series, it was important to us that we properly reflect the world that kids today live in so that the series can deliver meaningful lessons about navigating it,” added Fred Soulie, SVP and general manager of Mattel Television. “With our modern take on Barney, we hope to inspire the next generation to listen, care, and dream big. We think that parents, many of whom will fondly remember the original Barney from their own childhoods, will love the show, too.”
Are you ready for Mattel’s Barney reboot? It’s not happening for a while, but it’s coming. There will be no escape. You can either embrace it or take yourself off the grid. I will gladly bend a knee to our new purple overlord once he’s returned from the tar pits from whence he came.