A sequel to the blockbuster film «Barbie» is in jeopardy as Warner Bros. has yet to reach new agreements with stars Margot Robbie and Ryan Gosling, as well as director Greta Gerwig, according to The Sun.
The report says the negotiations have stalled over financial terms. Robbie, Gosling and Gerwig are seeking higher salaries and a share of the sequel’s box office revenue. Gosling is reportedly willing to return as Ken for $20 million.
Negotiations have been further complicated because the cast and director did not sign sequel options following the release of the original film. As a result, Warner Bros. is renegotiating terms from scratch.
Warner Bros. Discovery CEO David Zaslav reportedly believes the compensation demands are too high. The studio has made several revised offers but has not reached an agreement.
Deadline adds pressure
Warner Bros. is also facing a time constraint. If the sequel does not enter development by December 2026, the film rights could revert to toy maker Mattel, according to the report.
Gerwig and screenwriter Noah Baumbach have already developed a concept for the sequel, but they do not plan to begin writing the screenplay until all contracts have been finalized.
A billion-dollar franchise
Released in 2023, «Barbie» became a global box office phenomenon. The film grossed more than $1 billion worldwide, earned eight Academy Award nominations and became one of Warner Bros.’ most successful releases.
