Mattel Films, Daniel Kaluuya’s 59% Productions, and A24 are co-developing and producing a live-action “Barney.” Actress Ayo Edebiri will write the screenplay, with talks of her starring in the film. Mattel Films’ Kevin McKeon and Andrew Scannell will oversee Barney’s production, and Mattel Films’ Robbie Brenner will serve as Producer alongside A24. Daniel Kaluuya and Rowan Riley will produce for Kaluuya’s 59% Productions.
Ayo Adebri’s “Barney” Film
Edebiri, known for her work in FX’s “The Bear,” is an award-winning actress, writer, producer, director and comedian. She has been nominated and won multiple Emmys, including “Outstanding Directorial Achievement in a Comedy Series” and “Outstanding Supporting Actress.” In addition to her work on The Bear, she voiced Envy in Pixar’s “Inside Out 2,” the highest grossing Pixar movie of all time. She is in director Luca Guadagnino’s “After the Hunt,” featuring Andrew Garfield and Julia Roberts.
Barney’s production was originally announced in 2019. However, there is not yet a confirmed plot.
“Barney was a ubiquitous figure in many of our childhoods, then he disappeared into the shadows, left misunderstood,” said Daniel Kaluuya, 59% in a 2019 Mattel press release. “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.”
About Barney
Debuting in 1988, Barney is primarily for young children. “Barney & Friends” follows the titular purple dinosaur and his human friends. Through singing and dancing, “Barney & Friends” encourages kids to learn problem solving skills, be imaginative, and foster friendship.
“Barney & Friends” ran for 14 seasons, concluding November 2, 2010.
