Thomas success down under

According to the latest ABC TV ratings data, the first ever Thomas the Tank Engine series produced in full CGI-animation is an astonishing hit with Australian fans.

The latest figures show that the new ‘Thomas &Friends’ CGI-animated episodes which launched on 5th February, airing at 4:10pm Monday-Friday, contributed to a 47 per cent increase in Thomas viewers on ABC2. In Q1 2010 on ABC2, ‘Thomas & Friends’ represented 43.8 per cent of the under four FTA audience share across all timeslots..

In a celebratory 65th anniversary year for everyone’s favourite little blue engine, this achievement demonstrates the huge appeal of the world’s number one boys pre-school brand, since the Rev W Awdry first wrote about Thomas in 1945.

Thomas & Friends series 13 is the first series to be produced in full CGI, giving the Island of Sodor and its inhabitants a fresh, modern look. The series introduces Charlie, the fun and mischievous small engine from the mainland, who is always up for an adventure. He is joined by Japanese engine Hiro, alongside Kevin the crane, and Victor from Sodor Steam Works – characters first unveiled in last year’s feature-length DVD hit ‘Hero of the Rails’.

Christopher Skala, SVP programming and new content development, HIT Entertainment comments: “We are thrilled that so many Australian viewers are enjoying the new series of Thomas & Friends. The full CGI animation really enhances the visual experience and the fact the engines can speak for themselves adds a fresh feel and texture to the stories."

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