Ayo Edebiri Set to Write and Star in Upcoming Live-Action ‘Barney’ Movie

Ayo Edebiri, the breakout star of The Bear, is stepping into a new role as both the screenwriter and a potential lead in the upcoming live-action Barney movie. Edebiri is set to write the screenplay for the highly anticipated film, which will be co-developed and produced by A24, 59% Productions, and Mattel Films. The project promises to breathe new life into the beloved purple dinosaur franchise, with fans eager to see how this reimagined version will unfold.

The film is being produced by Daniel Kaluuya’s 59% Productions in partnership with Mattel Films, the company that owns the Barney intellectual property. Kaluuya, best known for his role in Get Out and his production of Judas and the Black Messiah, is involved as a lead producer, though sources have confirmed he will not appear in the movie alongside Edebiri. The project will be overseen by Kevin McKeon and Andrew Scannell for Mattel Films, with Robbie Brenner serving as a producer for Mattel Films alongside A24. Kaluuya and Rowan Riley will also be producing for 59% Productions.

Details regarding the plot of the film are being kept tightly under wraps. However, early reports suggest that this live-action adaptation of Barney will present a significantly different approach from the nostalgic, kid-friendly show Barney & Friends, which ran on PBS from 1988 to 2010. The new film is expected to surprise audiences with a modern twist on the character, and the narrative will likely break from the wholesome family formula established in the original series.

A Fresh Take on Barney

The Barney franchise, which became a childhood staple for generations of kids, is poised for a major revamp. When Mattel Films first announced the project in November 2019, Robbie Brenner, head of the studio’s film division, shared that collaborating with Kaluuya would allow the team to “take a completely new approach to ‘Barney’ that will surprise audiences and subvert expectations.” This fresh take has raised anticipation about what direction the live-action movie might take, with hints that it will blend nostalgia with modern sensibilities.

Josh Silverman, Mattel’s Chief Franchise Officer, hinted at the distinct differences between the live-action film and the new animated reboot of Barney being produced by Max. In an interview with Variety, Silverman said, “We want to have a clear narrative. The Barney film will be what it’s ultimately going to be, and this show, we felt that, we want to remain consistent to the authenticity. That’s really, really important. If it’s not authentic, we’re not going to do it. We want to remain consistent to the authenticity, the DNA of Barney, but we also want to modernize.”

Silverman’s comments suggest that while the film will honor the essence of Barney, it will also introduce contemporary elements to appeal to both older audiences who grew up with the character and newer generations discovering the franchise for the first time. This careful balance between nostalgia and innovation seems to be a key focus for the team behind the film.

Ayo Edebiri’s Expanding Career

Ayo Edebiri has become a household name following her standout performance on the hit show The Bear, for which she won an Emmy Award. Her portrayal of Sydney Adamu in the acclaimed series has solidified her as one of Hollywood’s rising stars. Edebiri has also lent her voice to the character of Envy in Pixar’s Inside Out 2 and is set to appear in Luca Guadagnino’s upcoming film After the Hunt, alongside Julia Roberts and Andrew Garfield.

Her growing list of credits has made her one of the most sought-after talents in Hollywood, and her involvement in the Barney project further expands her already impressive range. Known for her quick wit and emotional depth, Edebiri’s role as both the screenwriter and a potential lead in the Barney movie is bound to add a unique perspective to the film. Her contributions could play a pivotal role in reimagining the classic character while adding a fresh, modern layer to the franchise.

The Legacy of Barney & Friends

Barney & Friends first premiered in 1988 and became a beloved children’s television show, airing for 14 seasons before concluding in 2010. The show’s heartwarming messages, catchy songs, and educational content made it a favorite among young viewers, and Barney became a pop culture icon. While the original Barney series was lighthearted and focused on teaching kids important life lessons, the upcoming live-action adaptation seems poised to take a different approach—one that resonates with today’s audiences while staying true to the franchise’s core values.

As Barney continues to evolve for a new generation, the movie’s development under the guidance of A24 and Mattel Films offers a tantalizing glimpse of what’s to come. Fans of the original series, as well as those looking for a new take on the character, will likely be eager to see how this reimagining unfolds.

Looking Ahead

The Barney live-action film is still in early stages, with plot details kept under wraps. However, with Ayo Edebiri’s involvement both behind and in front of the camera, the project is already drawing attention for its fresh and contemporary approach. Fans of the franchise, as well as newcomers, will be watching closely as the film’s release date draws nearer.

For now, audiences can look forward to more updates on this highly anticipated film as it develops, and perhaps a glimpse of the purple dinosaur like never before.