Skydance seeks Barbie sequel deal before rights return to Mattel

Skydance executives David Ellison and Ynon Kreiz want a deal for a sequel to *Barbie* by the end of 2026, according to a Variety report cited by Nieuws.nl. The deadline matters because the film rights are due to return to Mattel at the end of the year.

Variety, citing people around Skydance, reported that the company’s chairman and chief executive, Ellison, and Kreiz, its co-chief executive, are pursuing an agreement. Kreiz previously led Mattel, the maker of Barbie dolls. The report said a deal was possible, but did not say one had been reached.

The 2023 film earned more than $1.4bn worldwide. Writers Greta Gerwig and Noah Baumbach are reportedly already considering a sequel, while US media reported last summer that they wanted an agreement with Warner Bros before proceeding. Variety also reported that Gerwig and stars Margot Robbie and Ryan Gosling are seeking $25m each, plus a share of potential profits, and are negotiating together.

Even if an agreement is reached, a second *Barbie* film would still be years away from cinemas. Skydance took over Warner Bros Discovery in a merger that created a group including both studios; the company has also set out plans to cut at least $6bn in costs over three years.