Britt Allcroft, the talented creator of the Thomas the Tank Engine & Friends series, has died at age 81. That is according to published reports and filmmaker Brannon Carty, who made the sad announcement on X.
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Per the New York Post, "...Carty...directed the 2023 documentary 'An Unlikely Fandom: The Impact of Thomas the Tank Engine.'"
Britt Allcroft Was Beloved To Her Fans And Those Close To Her
She Will Be Terribly Missed By Many
Carty's statement read in part, "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 their privacy be respected at this time."
The statement continued, "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. Over the years of knowing Britt, we developed a close connection. It was truly a privilege to have her as both a mentor and a friend, and I'm so glad that so many fans were able to meet her at the New York screening of 'An Unlikely Fandom.' It was an absolute honor to have her in our documentary, and she has since remained a vocal supporter of our cause."
Carty's announcement suggested an option for fans to honor Allcroft's memory. "As a way to honor Britt's legacy, her family as asked that you consider making a charitable donation to your local chapter of the ASPCA in Britt's name."
Allcroft Had A Distinguished Background
She Started In Television At The Young Age Of 21
Per the outlet, "Allcroft and her then-husband, variety show producer Angus Wright, joined forces to create a production company that went on to launch "Thomas & Friends" in 1984." The show subsequently was re-titled "Thomas the Tank Engine & Friends" in 1989.
It earned a prestigious British Academy of Film and Television Arts (BAFTA) nomination in 1985 for Best Animated film.
Britt Allcroft was clearly a gifted, compassionate person and professional whose exceptional work will long be remembered.
