Britt Allcroft dies in Los Angeles at 81

Britt Allcroft, a British writer, producer, and director best known for his television series “Thomas & Friends,” died in Los Angeles at the age of 81.

Holly Wright, Britt’s daughter, confirmed her death to the New York Times, Variety said. On December 25, 2024, she died.

With the children’s program “Thomas the Tank Engine & Friends,” which was subsequently renamed “Thomas & Friends,” Allcroft was in charge of introducing the Reverend Wilbert Awdry’s novels “The Railway Series” to British television.

Before making its Netflix debut, the 1984-released series continued for 24 seasons until 2021. Along with famous toys and goods, the program has inspired a number of specials and films.

Britt Allcroft has away, according to director Brannon Carty, who is well-known for helming the documentary “An Unlikely Fandom: The Impact of Thomas the Tank Engine,” which included interviews with fans of the “Thomas & Friends” television series.

“I am deeply saddened to inform you of Britt Allcroft’s passing,” he said on his X account. I have been invited to share this information with the Thomas fanbase by the Allcroft-Wright family. Later today, a complete obituary will appear in the London Times. The family requests that their privacy be respected at this time while they are in sorrow.

“Britt was a loving wife and mother,” he said. A producer with a vision. During her stay on Earth, she made people happy and joyful everywhere. As I got to know Britt over the years, we became close. Having her as a friend and mentor was a true honor, and I’m delighted that so many fans were able to meet her at the “An Unlikely Fandom” screening in New York.

Recalling Britt’s involvement in the documentary’s creation, he urged the producer’s admirers to honor her memory by contributing to a worthy cause.

“Having her in our documentary was a true honor, and she has continued to advocate for our cause ever since. I believe I can speak for the whole fanbase when I say that we will all miss her terribly. Many of us might never have met if it weren’t for her.

Britt’s family has suggested that you think about donating to your local ASPCA branch in Britt’s honor as a way to celebrate her memory. Even though I’m saddened by her departure, we can all take solace in the knowledge that Thomas and his global fan base will carry on her legacy for ever. “May you rest in peace,” Brannon wrote.

https://twitter.com/cartycinema/status/1875044512717750626?

The author was born Hilary Mary Allcroft in 1943, but as her career in British television grew, she changed her name to Britt at the age of 16.

Allcroft’s son, daughter, and grandkids survive her.