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Britt Allcroft, Creator of Thomas the Tank Engine Series, Dies at 81 After 24 Seasons Spanning 27 Years

Jan 3, 2025, 11:40 AM

Britt Allcroft, the creator of the beloved children's television series 'Thomas & Friends,' featuring Thomas the Tank Engine, has died at the age of 81. Allcroft, who secured the rights to adapt Reverend Wilbert Awdry's 'Railway Series' books in the 1970s, launched the show in 1984. It ran for 24 seasons until 2021, spanning 27 years, and became a global cultural phenomenon. The series was narrated by Ringo Starr and George Carlin and included segments on the US show 'Shining Time Station.' Her death was announced by filmmaker Brannon Carty, who described her as an 'adoring mother and wife' and a 'visionary producer.' Allcroft's family has requested privacy during their time of mourning.