- A special royal episode of Thomas & Friends, the TV show featuring Thomas the Tank Engine, will air in May to celebrate the character's 75th anniversary—and Prince Harry has filmed a personal introduction.
- "I certainly have fond memories of growing up with Thomas & Friends," Harry said.
- The Queen and a young Prince Charles are both characters in the episode.
Well, here's an unexpected post-royal project from Prince Harry: The Duke of Sussex will introduce a special anniversary episode of Thomas & Friends, due to air in May, to mark 75 years since central character Thomas the Tank Engine first appeared in books. And it turns out baby Harry was a big fan of Thomas! In a statement, as reported by Sky News, he said, "I certainly have fond memories of growing up with Thomas & Friends and being transported to new places through his adventures."
"Thomas the Tank Engine has been a comforting, familiar face to so many families over the last 75 years—entertaining, educating and inspiring children on important issues through exciting stories and characters," Harry said. "I am very proud to have been asked to take part in this special episode." He filmed his introduction back in January, according to Sky News, before lockdown measures were put in place.
A post shared by The Duke and Duchess of Sussex (@sussexroyal)
A photo posted by on
Both Queen Elizabeth II and a young Prince Charles will appear as characters in the special episode (played by actors, presumably, though this would be an incredible way for the Queen to launch her voice acting career), while Rosamund Pike will voice a new character: fancy royal engine the Duchess of Loughborough.
The episode will air on May 1 on Netflix—and it seems safe to assume baby Archie will be watching.
For more stories like this, including celebrity news, beauty and fashion advice, savvy political commentary, and fascinating features, sign up for the Marie Claire newsletter.
Stay In The Know
Marie Claire email subscribers get intel on fashion and beauty trends, hot-off-the-press celebrity news, and more. Sign up here.
Emily Dixon is a British journalist who’s contributed to CNN, Teen Vogue, Time, Glamour, The Guardian, Wonderland, The Big Roundtable, Bust, and more, on everything from mental health to fashion to political activism to feminist zine collectives. She’s also a committed Beyoncé, Kacey Musgraves, and Tracee Ellis Ross fan, an enthusiastic but terrible ballet dancer, and a proud Geordie lass.
-
Anna Sawai Is 'Shōgun's Not-So-Secret Weapon
The actress discusses the FX miniseries’ climactic penultimate episode and Mariko’s heartbreaking [spoiler].
By Quinci LeGardye Published
-
Taylor Swift Is Celebrating the Release of ‘The Tortured Poets Department’ With a Pop-Up Poetry Library
Anticipation is building as fans anxiously wait to hear the singer's eleventh studio album.
By Danielle Campoamor Published
-
Met Gala 2024 Details: The Theme, A-List Attendees, and More
Find all the information on its theme, attendees, and how to watch the year's most anticipated night in fashion.
By Emma Childs Published
-
British Royal Lady Gabriella Windsor's Husband Has Died at 45
Lady Gabriella is King Charles' second cousin.
By Iris Goldsztajn Published
-
George, Charlotte and Louis Will Be Laden With Gifts as Prince William Returns From New York
He was handed so many souvenirs for the little ones.
By Iris Goldsztajn Published
-
Prince William Makes Sure to "Treat George and Charlotte as Equals," Body Language Expert Says
I should hope so!
By Iris Goldsztajn Published
-
Prince William Isn't "A Workaholic Like His Father," Royal Expert Claims
He's got more of a work-life balance.
By Iris Goldsztajn Published
-
Princess Kate's New "Signature" Gesture? The Stealthy "Bum Pat" to Prince William
Love this for her.
By Iris Goldsztajn Published
-
Prince Harry Says His "Spirit Is Renewed" as He Attends the Warrior Games for Wounded Service Members in San Diego
The Games inspired his Invictus concept.
By Iris Goldsztajn Published
-
Prince William Not Expected to Invite Prince Harry to His Coronation, Friend Claims
That doesn't sound good.
By Iris Goldsztajn Published
-
We Finally Know Where the Earthshot Prize 2023 Will Take Place
Let's go!
By Iris Goldsztajn Published