Mattel greenlights series 23 following revamp of popular show.
Mattel has given the thumbs up to another series and special for Thomas & Friends to premiere in 2019.
The new series will consist of 20 11-minute episodes and three 22-minute specials. It will continue the themes of exploration and discovery, while adding new locations and friends from around the world.
This brings the Thomas & Friends library of content to over 550 episodes.
The greenlight for series 23 comes after the revamped series 22, has been signed up by broadcaster’s Channel 5 Milkshake (UK), ABC TV (Australia), Televisa (Mexico), TV Cultura (Brazil), Super RTL (Germany) and Nick Jr (US).
The recent series has undergone a major refresh that sees the iconic blue engine travelling beyond Sodor for the first time, while also introducing a new theme tune, engines and international adventures, plus faster paced action and increased humour and music.
Kate Schlomann, vp and global brand GM, Thomas & Friends, said: “The reaction from broadcasters, licensees and partners to our revamped content has been incredibly positive and has proven appetite for the new series rolling out this year. We are delighted to keep this momentum going with all-new content for 2019 which really cements the brand direction for the franchise.”
