A new generation of young viewers are set to be introduced to hug-loving purple dinosaur Barney and his equally colourful friends in cartoon series Barney’s World.
Now airing on Sky channel Cartoonito daily at 8am, preschool-aimed Barney’s World is set in a playground, where Barney is joined by fellow dinos Billy and Baby Bop along with their three kid best friends David, Mel and Vivie.
Throughout the series dinos and kids embark on exciting, action-packed, music-filled adventures together, while Barney helps the kids understand how to handle big emotions, and the importance of how to love themselves, others, and their communities.
A live-action series titled Barney & Friends originally launched in 1988 and quickly became a global sensation, captivating audiences with the friendly dinosaur and his larger-than-life personality.
It ran for 14 seasons before calling it a day in 2010 and during that time, featured future stars Selena Gomez and Demi Lovato as young children.
Barney’s World is being co-produced by Mattel Television Studios and Corus Entertainment’s Nelvana.
Vanessa Brookman, General Manager Kids, Global Streaming and International Networks at Warner Bros. Discovery, who own Cartoonito, said: “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.
“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.”
Josh Silverman, Chief Franchise Officer at Mattel, added: “The goal of Mattel Television Studios is to develop and distribute episodic and long-form content that expands Mattel’s characters andstorylines across linear and streaming platforms worldwide.
“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.”
Nostalgia is proving big business in Hollywood at the moment.
On Monday, a first-look at another beloved 1980s children’s franchise was teased with a new Rainbow Brite cartoon series and movie being developed.
Meanwhile, classic 90s Nickelodeon cartoon Rugrats is also getting a live-action/CGI hybrid feature film.
