Britt Allcroft, creator of 'Thomas & Friends', passes away at 81

Britt Allcroft, the creative force behind the global hit 'Thomas & Friends', has passed away at age 81.

Britt Allcroft, known for bringing the Railway Series books to life as Thomas & Friends, died at 81.  

After forming the Britt Allcroft Company with her husband, Angus Wright, Allcroft spent years securing funding for the first 26 episodes of what became Thomas & Friends. Debuting in 1984, the show was an instant success, captivating young audiences worldwide. It aired in the U.S. through Shining Time Station and featured narration by talents like Ringo Starr and George Carlin.

The series ran for 27 years, inspiring countless spin-offs, movies, and a massive merchandise empire, cementing Thomas as a household name.

The news of Allcroft's passing was first shared by filmmaker Brannon Carty, who announced on social media, “Britt was an adoring mother and wife. A visionary producer. She brought so much joy and happiness to people everywhere during her time on Earth.”

It is with great sadness that I share with you the passing of Britt Allcroft.

The Allcroft-Wright family has asked me to bring this news to the Thomas fandom. A full obituary will be released in the London Times later today. The family is currently in mourning and asks that… pic.twitter.com/LSFq8VL7jK

— carty™ (@cartycinema) January 3, 2025

Fans and colleagues worldwide have paid tribute to her unparalleled contributions. “Her legacy will endure forever through Thomas and his fans around the world,” Carty added.

A full obituary is set to be published in The Times of London on Friday, while her family has requested privacy during this time of mourning.