Barney the Dinosaur made his debut in 1988 as the star of Barney & the Backyard Gang, a series of educational videos for children. The concept would be further developed for production by PBS in 1991. A year later, Barney and Friends premiered and became an instant hit with parents and young children, creating a huge entertainment brand comprised of countless linked merchandise and games. Barney also became the target of unexpected amounts of fiery, often violent reactions, which has become the focus of I Love You, You Hate Me. Joel Chiodi, Head of Documentaries and Strategic Development at Scout Productions, explains how a child character who stood for inclusion, understanding and kindness sparked a movement of anger and criticism that threatened the show, its creators and their future."