We may all once again hear I love you. You love me. We’re a happy family with a great big hug.. ringing in our ears as everyone’s favorite purple dinosaur is making a comeback.
According to Variety, The relaunch will kick off with a reimagined animated series, which is set to debut globally in 2024. Produced by Corus Entertainment’s Nelvana, the show promises to reintroduce the famously friendly purple dinosaur to a new generation of preschool kids with lessons on “love, community, and encouragement” told through music-filled adventures.
In addition to the new animated series, the new Barney franchise will also include a feature film, YouTube content, music, a full range of children’s products including: toys, books, and clothing. Additionally, the relaunch of the Barney franchise will include nostalgic pieces for adults featuring classic Barney.
“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, recently shared in a statement. “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.”
Fred Soulie, SVP and general manager of Mattel Television added, “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. 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.”
If you remember, it wasn’t that long ago when Peacock debuted The I Love You. You Hate Me documentary that showed a darker side of Barney & Friends.
In the two-part original series, according to People Magazine, the show took a closer look at the anti-Barney sentiment that swept the country following the character’s debut in 1992. Cast members allegedly received death threats; Barney was often the subject of derision, becoming a national punchline. The series explored how the wave of Barney animosity may have helped pave the way to the grumbling, cynical internet culture that we all enjoy today.
With the darker side of Barney & Friends exposed, we will see if the purple dinosaur manages to win over the hearts and minds of children once more!
