Britt Allcroft, Creator of 'Thomas the Tank Engine,' Dies at 81

The visionary producer transformed Rev. W. Awdry's Railway Series into a beloved global franchise spanning decades.

Britt Allcroft, the British creator of the 'Thomas the Tank Engine' TV series, passed away on December 25, 2024, at the age of 81, her family confirmed.
Allcroft secured the rights to adapt Rev. W. Awdry's Railway Series into 'Thomas & Friends,' which debuted in 1984 and ran for 24 seasons over 37 years.
The series became a global phenomenon, featuring narration by figures like Ringo Starr and George Carlin, inspiring spin-offs, films, and extensive merchandise lines.
Before her work on Thomas, Allcroft built a career in British television, producing children's shows such as 'Get It-Got-It-Good' and 'Magic Adventures of Mumfie.'
Her death was announced by filmmaker Brannon Carty, who directed a 2023 documentary on the 'Thomas' fandom and described Allcroft as a mentor and visionary.