Mattel, following the success of 'Barbie', appoints former Fox and Sony executive to lead TV studio.

• The ex-Fox and Sony executive will become the new head of Mattel's television studio.
• Mattel has recently intensified its strategy of moving from store shelves to screens, resulting in the successful "Barbie" film this summer.
• Mattel has announced that there will be more television content released next year, including a revival of "Barney."

The company hopes to increase its content offerings with the help of a new hire after the success of "Barbie."

Michelle Mendelovitz, a former executive from Fox and Sony, has been appointed as the head of Mattel Television Studios, which is known for producing popular toys such as Hot Wheels and American Girl.

Mattel Chief Franchise Officer Josh Silverman stated that the chance to connect worldwide audiences with Mattel's iconic brands, franchises, and characters through high-quality storytelling has never been greater. He expressed excitement about the impact that Michelle and Mattel Television Studios will have on expanding the content slate, to the delight of fans around the globe.

Previously, Mendelovitz held senior positions at Disney 20th Television Studios, Apple TV+, Sony Pictures Television, and CBS Television Network.

Mattel Television Studios, responsible for producing and distributing TV content for the toy company, has previously created TV shows based on some of the company's most popular intellectual property. These releases included live action shows, animated specials, and series based on toy brands such as Barbie, Thomas & Friends, and Hot Wheels, the company stated in a press release.

Mattel is doubling down on the strategy that made "Barbie" a summer blockbuster.

Last month, Mattel CEO Ynon Kreiz stated that the company is concentrating on "maximizing the worth of our IP beyond the toy section."

With Mendelovitz leading the way, the toy maker's content slate will continue to expand, according to a Mattel spokesperson. Some of the new releases for the upcoming year include "Hot Wheels Let's Race" and "Masters of the Universe: Revolution."

Mattel is planning to bring the animated series "Barney's World" to Cartoon Network and Max in 2024, followed by a toy and product line in 2025. The company has also announced that "Barney & Friends," the original children's TV program featuring the famous purple dinosaur, ended production of new episodes in 2010.