Ayo Edebiri Joins A24 and Mattel’s Live-Action Barney Film as Writer, Potential Star

A24, Mattel Films, and Daniel Kaluuya’s 59% Productions are bringing Barney back—this time, with a fresh perspective aimed at adult audiences. Emmy-winning actor and writer Ayo Edebiri (The Bear, Inside Out 2) has officially joined the project as its screenwriter and is also in talks to star in the upcoming live-action adaptation of the beloved purple dinosaur.

The film, first announced in 2019, has been described as an unconventional reimagining of Barney & Friends, a show that captivated children throughout the ‘90s and early 2000s with its messages of kindness and friendship. While details about the plot remain under wraps, comments from producers suggest a film that will delve deeper into themes of nostalgia, loss, and perhaps even existential questioning—far from the lighthearted singalongs of its predecessor.

A New Vision for Barney

Kaluuya, best known for his performances in Get Out and Judas and the Black Messiah, has hinted at a more emotionally complex take on Barney, describing his vision as “heartbreaking.”

“Barney taught us, ‘I love you, you love me. Won’t you say you love me too?’ That’s one of the first songs I remember, and what happens when that isn’t true?” Kaluuya said in a 2020 interview with Entertainment Weekly.

Mattel Films’ Kevin McKeon has further characterized the project as an “A24-type film,” suggesting a deeper, more introspective approach to the character than a straightforward family-friendly adaptation. However, Mattel CEO Ynon Kreiz has assured audiences that it will still be a commercially viable film and “not be an odd movie.”

Ayo Edebiri’s Rising Influence

Edebiri’s involvement adds an intriguing layer to the project. The actress and writer has been on a meteoric rise, winning widespread acclaim for her role as Sydney in The Bear and earning recognition as a versatile voice actor, most recently as Envy in Pixar’s Inside Out 2. Her ability to balance comedy, drama, and nuanced storytelling could be a game-changer for the project.

With Mattel having found massive success with Barbie in 2023, the studio appears eager to continue reinventing nostalgic brands for modern audiences. Barney could follow suit, especially with a creative team that includes Kaluuya, Edebiri, and A24’s signature unconventional storytelling.

The film will be produced by Kaluuya and Rowan Riley under 59% Productions, with Robbie Brenner producing for Mattel Films. Kevin McKeon and Andrew Scannell will oversee the project for Mattel.

While a release date has yet to be announced, one thing is certain—this is not the Barney many grew up with.