Plans for a sequel to the highly successful film Barbie have encountered delays due to unresolved salary negotiations involving key cast members. Actor Ryan Gosling, who portrayed Ken in the original movie, reportedly sought a $20 million payment to reprise his role. This figure, however, has not been approved by Discovery CEO David Zaslav, who is reportedly opposed to the large sum despite Gosling's recognition as a contender for the Academy Award for Best Supporting Actor.

The first Barbie film, directed by Greta Gerwig and starring Margot Robbie, received eight Oscar nominations and achieved significant box office success. Robbie, who played the titular character, reportedly earned approximately $50 million through a combination of salary and bonuses for the initial project. Like Gosling, she has yet to reach an agreement for her compensation in the sequel.

Both Gerwig and her husband, filmmaker Noah Baumbach, have developed a concept for the follow-up movie but have refrained from sharing details publicly until contractual matters are resolved. Warner Bros. co-chairs Pam Abdy and Michael De Luca confirmed ongoing negotiations with the film’s stars and acknowledged that a deal remains elusive. They also noted that Warner Bros. holds a rights agreement with Mattel for the Barbie franchise and has extended several substantial offers to advance production.

The studio has set a deadline of December to commence work on the sequel. Without confirmed contracts, progress on the new Barbie film remains uncertain.