Warner Bros. has delayed plans for a “Barbie” sequel as the studio works to finalize new contracts with stars Margot Robbie, Ryan Gosling and director Greta Gerwig before the film rights return to Mattel.
The studio has until December to reach agreements with the key creative team behind the 2023 blockbuster. If deals are not completed by the deadline, the rights for a follow up film could return to toy company Mattel, creating uncertainty around the future of the franchise.
Negotiations have reportedly slowed over financial terms, with Gosling seeking a $20 million payment for returning as Ken. Warner Bros. CEO David Zaslav has also been hesitant about offers that include additional shares of box office earnings, according to reports.
Warner Bros. Motion Picture Group co-chairs Pam Abdy and Michael De Luca confirmed that discussions are ongoing, saying the studio has made multiple major offers to move forward with another “Barbie” movie.
“We have a rights deal with Mattel in place and have made a series of big offers to try and finalize deals to make the next Barbie film,” the executives said. “Unfortunately, we have been unable to reach an agreement thus far.”
The sequel’s development has also been affected by creative negotiations. Gerwig and her husband and writing partner Noah Baumbach reportedly have a story idea prepared but have chosen not to begin writing until contracts are settled, giving them stronger negotiating power.
The original “Barbie” film did not include traditional sequel clauses for Gerwig, Robbie or Gosling when it was approved, which has contributed to the current contract challenges.
The first “Barbie” movie became a global success after its 2023 release, earning more than $1 billion worldwide and becoming one of Warner Bros.’ biggest films, the movie received praise for its performances, direction and cultural impact.
Mattel CEO Ynon Kreiz has previously emphasized the importance of keeping projects moving and avoiding long development delays.
Even if Warner Bros. reaches agreements with the cast and director, production timelines suggest that a “Barbie” sequel may not arrive in theaters until 2029 or 2030.
