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Celebrity

29th Apr 2020

Prince Harry is teaming up with Thomas the Tank Engine, and it’s as adorable as it sounds

Niamh McClelland

First we had Tom Hardy returning to CBeebies Bedtime Stories, and now we have Prince Harry regaling us with the latest tale from Thomas and Friends.

That’s right; the 35-year-old royal has followed in his wife’s footsteps and taken a step into the world of entertainment. Well, a step of sorts – it’s less Suits, and more story-time.

Either way, it’s welcome.

So, what’s the story and where exactly does the Duke of Sussex come in?

Well, in May of this year, Netflix will be celebrating the 75th anniversary of the beloved children’s programme Thomas and Friends with an episode entitled ‘The Royal Engine’, and the father-of-one will be doing the honours with the introduction.

Prince Harry recorded the introduction back in January of this year, and has expressed his delight at being part of a milestone moment in the history of Thomas the Tank Engine.

“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,” he said.

“I certainly have fond memories of growing up with Thomas and Friends and being transported to new places through his adventures.”

Indeed, the royal, who made global headlines earlier this year for resigning as a senior royal and seeking financial independence, is remembered for carrying a Thomas the Tank Engine bag on his first day at school back in 1987 and rocking a particularly stylish T-shirt in tribute to the train throughout his childhood.

And yep, it truly was that adorable.

“I am very proud to have been asked to take part in this special episode,” Prince Harry said. “I wish Thomas and Friends a very happy anniversary.”

Oh and in case you’re wondering, ‘Thomas and Friends: The Royal Engine’ tells the story of Thomas’ trip to Buckingham Palace where the controller of the railway, Sir Topham Hatt, is due to receive an honour.

Naturally, Harry’s father and grandmother, Prince Charles and Queen Elizabeth II, will make an appearance as animated characters in the highly-anticipated anniversary episode.

But, of course.