Culture reporter Paul Glynn announced a long-awaited event in the world of children’s entertainment. A rediscovered and restored version of the pilot episode of Thomas & Friends, the beloved animated steam train series narrated by Beatles legend Sir Ringo Starr, is set to make its debut after being unseen since 1983. The test episode, titled Down The Mine, will be released online on Friday to coincide with the 80th anniversary of the iconic tank engine franchise.
Originally starting as a book in 1945, Thomas the Tank Engine made his way onto television screens in 1984, captivating generations of viewers until the year 2021. Now, after more than 40 years, the original pilot episode shot on 35mm film has been uncovered and digitally restored for fans to enjoy. The release of this historical footage is scheduled for 18:00 BST on Friday via YouTube.
The newly discovered footage features Sir Ringo Starr’s distinctive narration with a specially crafted musical score by series composer Mike O’ Donnell. Ian McCue, who produced the show from 2010 to 2020, shared with BBC Radio 4’s Today program how the team stumbled upon the film cans in storage and meticulously put the pieces together to present the pilot in all its nostalgic glory.
Reflecting on the early days of Thomas & Friends, McCue noted some technical challenges faced during filming, such as issues with radio control devices and special effects. Despite these hurdles, the pilot episode exudes a charming and innocent quality, offering audiences a timeless story with delightful voices. The enduring popularity of the show can be attributed to its themes of friendship, teamwork, and communication — values that continue to resonate with viewers and make it a trusted choice for families
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