Britt Allcroft, Creator of Thomas & Friends, Dies at 81

Britt Allcroft, the co-creator of the iconic children's series 'Thomas the Tank Engine & Friends,' has passed away at the age of 81, as announced by filmmaker Brannon Carty. No cause of death was disclosed, and the Allcroft-Wright family has requested privacy during their mourning period. Allcroft's remarkable career began in the 1970s when she secured the rights to adapt Reverend Wilbert Awdry's 'Railway Series,' leading to the show's debut in 1984, which became a global success and ran for 27 seasons. She is remembered as a visionary producer and a loving family member, leaving a lasting legacy through her work that brought joy to millions. Carty, who made a documentary on the series, expressed that Allcroft's influence will be felt through the fandom, stating, 'Without her, so many of us would never have met.' Donations to local ASPCA chapters in her name have been encouraged by her family.