A purple dinosaur will once again roam the earth in October.
Barney’s World, Mattel‘s animated and updated version of the long-running preschool series, is set to return to screens next month. The series will debut Oct. 14 on Max, followed by an Oct. 18 premiere on Cartoon Network. It will also air on Cartoonito and Discovery Kids internationally.
Some episodes will also stream on YouTube, beginning with the series premiere on Oct. 11.
Mattel announced the relaunch of the character, a kids’ TV staple in the 1990s and 2000s, in early 2023. In addition to the animated series, the toymaker is releasing an array of consumer products aimed at its target audience of young kids.
“The goal of Mattel Television Studios is to develop and distribute episodic and long-form content that expands Mattel’s characters and storylines across linear and streaming platforms worldwide,” said Josh Silverman, Mattel’s chief franchise officer. “Barney nurtures the power of love in all of us, and we are thrilled to bring him back to fans all around the world. We hope this modern revival leaves an impression on young audiences, imparting lessons that will positively influence them as they grow up.”
Barney’s World is set on a playground, where the purple guy, his dinosaur friends Baby Bop and Billy, and human kids David, Mel and Vivie will go on adventures designed to help kids explore “big preschool emotions” and model how to love themselves, others and their communities.
“We are thrilled to partner with Mattel to bring a fresh, imaginative new take on Barney that resonates with today’s preschoolers and their families around the world,” said Vanessa Brookman, general manager kids, global streaming and international networks at Warner Bros. Discovery. “This new animated series aims to blend nostalgia with modern storytelling, ensuring that the world’s beloved purple dinosaur continues to inspire, educate, and delight young audiences.”
Jonathan Langdon (Disney’s Zombies franchise) provides the voice of Barney. The show’s cast also features Bryn McAuley, Jonathan Tan, Jayd Deroché, Diana Tsoy and Ella Paciocco.
Mattel Television Studios and Corus Entertainment’s Nelvana are producing Barney’s World, which has an initial order of 52 11-minute episodes. Mattel’s Michelle Mendelovitz and Josh Silverman executive produce with Nelvana’s Athena Georgaklis, Doug Murphy, Mellany Welsh and Pam Westman.
A teaser for the show is below.
