Brett Allcroft, the “visionary” creator behind the popular children’s TV show based on Thomas the Tank Engine, has died at the age of 81.
The tragic news was announced by friend and director Brannon Carty on behalf of the Allcroft-Wright family with “deep sadness” to Thomas and the Tank Engine fans online.
Carti is the creator of the 2023 feature documentary, An unlikely fan baseexploring the adult fandom behind the popular British children’s series Thomas & Friends, featuring interviews with long-time fans and ‘series veterans’ including Allcroft.
The tribute read: “The family is currently mourning and requests that their privacy be respected at this time.”
‘Britt was a loving mother and wife. Visionary product. She brought so much joy and happiness to people everywhere during her time on Earth.
“Over the years we’ve known Britt, we’ve developed a close relationship. It’s been a true honor to have her as both a mentor and friend, and I’m so happy that so many fans were able to meet her at the New York screening of An Improbable Fandom.”
He called it an “honor” for her to appear in the documentary and to remain a “strong supporter” of the cause.
The message continued: “I think I can speak for the entire fanbase when I say that we will all miss her terribly. Without her, many of us would never have met.”
The tribute ended with her sharing her family’s request to consider a charitable donation to the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA) in her name.
Adding, “While I am devastated by her passing, we can all find comfort in the certainty that her legacy will live on forever through Thomas and his fans around the world.”
There was a wave of tributes from fans.
Thomasfanno123 wrote: “Absolutely heartbreaking news… Thank you Brett for making the childhoods of so many, thank you for everything you did for Thomas.” I think I speak for everyone when I say we will miss you so much.
“The woman who brought the little blue tank engine we all know and love to television around the world.” Rest in peace Brett, and thank you so much for all the wonderful childhood memories! 3801 products added.
Brett Allcroft Limited)
‘May he rest in peace. Her memory will live on in the joy she created in thousands of childhoods,” echoed Max Monty 1516.
Thomas the Tank Engine was created in the 1940s by author Reverend V. Awdry and his son Christopher in the Railway series.
It was adapted for the screen as Thomas & Friends by Allcroft and first broadcast in October 1984 through her production company Britt Allcroft Railway Productions, which he co-founded with television producer husband Angus Wright.
The show, originally titled Thomas the Tank Engine and Friends, ran for decades, ending in 2021 after 584 episodes, 13 feature films and one theatrical release.
It has been broadcast in 185 countries and territories, amassing a widespread and loyal fan base and featuring famous narrators such as Ringo Starr, George Carlin and Alec Baldwin.
Metro has reached out to Britt Allcroft’s representatives for comment.
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