Royal treatment for beloved British series
He may have stepped down from official royal duties to start a new life in Los Angeles, but Prince Harry has not forgotten his British roots.
The Duke of Sussex will introduce a special edition of an animated children’s program about “Thomas the Tank Engine,” which celebrates its 75th anniversary this year.
The special episode, “Thomas & Friends: The Royal Engine,” features animations of Queen Elizabeth and Prince Charles as a child.
The program premieres in the U.S. on Netflix on Friday and the following day in the U.K. It will be eventually available in more than 180 countries this year.
Harry recorded his introduction in January, prior to leaving the U.K. with his wife, Meghan, and son Archie.
Viewers will see him sitting in an armchair by a fireplace, reading from a book titled “Thomas and the Royal Engine.”
In his introduction, Harry says, “Thomas & Friends” is celebrating 75 years “of friendship and teamwork.”
In a statement released by Mattel, owner of the
“Thomas the Tank Engine” brand, Harry said he was a fan of Thomas as a child.
Harry said: “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.
“I certainly have fond memories of growing up with Thomas & Friends and being transported to new places through his adventures.”
Harry added that he was “proud” to take part in the special episode.
The prince undertook the role in exchange for a donation to charity, according to the statement, although further details of this have not been made available.
The 22-minute special will also feature a character voiced by British actress Rosamund Pike, best known for her Oscarnominated starring role in “Gone Girl.”
“Thomas the Tank Engine” was created by the Rev. Wilbert Vere Awdry and was a book series. The story was turned into a TV series in 1984 and for several years was narrated by former Beatle Ringo Starr. It made its American debut on PBS in 1989.