Is Warner Bros. Working on Barbie 2?
After the massive success of Barbie (2023), which became a cultural phenomenon and grossed over $1.4 billion globally, fans are eagerly awaiting news about a sequel. Given Hollywood’s trend of capitalizing on box office hits, it seems natural that Warner Bros. would greenlight Barbie 2.
However, as of January 2025, no official confirmation has been made about a follow-up. While speculation has been growing, director Greta Gerwig and star Margot Robbie have both expressed uncertainty about a sequel.
So, what’s really going on? Let’s break down everything we know so far.
Why a Barbie Sequel Seems Likely
The first Barbie film, led by Greta Gerwig and starring Margot Robbie and Ryan Gosling, shattered expectations, becoming the highest-grossing movie of 2023. Here’s why a sequel seems like an obvious next step:
- Massive Box Office Success: Barbie became Warner Bros.’ highest-grossing film ever, surpassing Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows – Part 2.
- Oscar Buzz and Awards Recognition: The film is expected to be a major player at the 2025 Academy Awards, making a sequel even more appealing.
- Merchandising Powerhouse: Mattel saw a huge boost in Barbie-related sales, further strengthening the financial incentive for a sequel.
Yet, despite these factors, Barbie 2 has not been officially confirmed.
What Warner Bros. and the Filmmakers Have Said
Greta Gerwig (Director & Co-Writer)
In an interview with The New York Times, Gerwig admitted she doesn’t currently have plans for a sequel:
“At the moment, I don’t have a story in mind. I feel like we put everything into this one.”
However, she also acknowledged that the world of Barbie is vast, leaving room for creative expansion in the future.
Margot Robbie (Producer & Star)
Robbie, who played Stereotypical Barbie, has been cautious about promising a sequel. In a 2024 interview with Variety, she stated:
“I don’t think this film was designed to start a franchise. It felt like a one-time, special moment.”
However, Hollywood insiders believe Warner Bros. will push hard for a follow-up, given the film’s financial success.
Warner Bros. Executive Comments
While Warner Bros. has remained tight-lipped, a studio executive anonymously told The Hollywood Reporter in late 2024 that a sequel is in “early development talks” though nothing has been finalized.
Challenges in Making Barbie 2
Even if Warner Bros. wants a sequel, several hurdles need to be overcome:
1. Greta Gerwig’s Availability
• After Barbie, Gerwig signed a deal to direct two Chronicles of Narnia films for Netflix, which will keep her busy for the next few years.
• If Warner Bros. wants her back, they may have to wait—or find a new director.
2. Does the Story Need a Sequel?
• The first film had a self-contained arc, where Barbie left Barbieland to explore the real world.
• A follow-up would need a compelling new storyline that doesn’t feel forced.
3. Ryan Gosling’s Hesitation
• Gosling, who played Ken, was praised for his performance, but has not expressed interest in returning.
• If Ken’s story doesn’t continue, would audiences still be as invested?
4. Margot Robbie’s Production Role
• Robbie was not just the lead actress but also a producer.
• If she doesn’t see a strong creative reason for Barbie 2, it might not happen.
Could Barbie Get a Spin-Off Instead?
Rather than a direct sequel, spin-offs focusing on other Barbie characters might be a more likely direction. Some ideas floating around Hollywood include:
- A Ken movie starring Ryan Gosling – Expanding on Ken’s story in Barbieland.
- A prequel focusing on Weird Barbie (Kate McKinnon) – Showing how she became “Weird Barbie.”
- An animated Barbie movie – Bringing a new style and storytelling approach to the franchise.
Warner Bros. and Mattel have also hinted at expanding their Mattel Cinematic Universe, with films based on:
• Polly Pocket (Directed by Lena Dunham, starring Lily Collins)
• Hot Wheels (Produced by J.J. Abrams)
• Masters of the Universe (He-Man live-action movie in early development)
If a Barbie sequel doesn’t happen, these spin-offs might be the future of Mattel’s big-screen ambitions.
Final Verdict: Will Barbie 2 Happen?
As of now, Barbie 2 is not officially in development, but the overwhelming success of the first film makes it hard to imagine Warner Bros. not pursuing it.
What We Know:
✅ Barbie was a massive box office hit, making a sequel financially attractive.
✅ Warner Bros. has hinted at early discussions, but no script is in place.
✅ Greta Gerwig and Margot Robbie are hesitant but haven’t ruled it out completely.
✅ A spin-off might be more likely than a direct sequel.
Until Warner Bros. makes an official announcement, Barbie 2 remains a strong possibility, but not a guarantee.
Would you like to see a Barbie sequel? What story should it tell? Let us know your thoughts!
