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Golding to Narrate New Thomas the Tank Engine Series
On Thursday, Thomas & Friends Railway Stories premieres on the Thomas & Friends YouTube channel with a 30-minute special titled Really Helpful Engines, marking the franchise's return with new voices and animation.
Hertfordshire native Harry Sparkes, 13, makes his professional voice-over debut voicing Thomas after secretly recording sessions for nine months by telling classmates he attended physiotherapy for a foot injury.
Actor Henry Golding, 39, narrates the series, following in the footsteps of Sir Ringo Starr and Pierce Brosnan. Golding said he felt in the "shadow of giants" while bringing "a new spin and excitement" to the franchise.
Franchise owner Mattel aims to "introduce fans to a refreshed world of Sodor" while celebrating the series' enduring themes. General manager Ted Wu noted the relaunch highlights "friendship and helping others" for today's preschool audience.
Following the YouTube premiere, the series streams on Netflix from September 30, with the full series debuting in early 2027. The franchise has entertained children for more than 80 years.