Mattel relaunches the Thomas & Friends franchise with the animated series, Thomas & Friends: Railway Stories. Ahead of its 2027 premiere, Mattel will introduce special content, new toys, and a pop-up experience.  

Early next year, viewers can watch Thomas & Friends: Railway Stories, which explores themes of teamwork and friendship. The animated series will be available on YouTube, Netflix, Amazon Prime, and Free-to-Air channels. 

The relaunch begins with Really Helpful Engines, a 30-minute special following Thomas’s mission to prove that he’s the most helpful engine in Sodor. This special is now available on YouTube and will premiere on Netflix Sept. 30. 

Thomas & Friends: Railway Stories | Really Helpful Engines | Source: Thomas & Friends/Mattel

From digital content to physical products, Mattel delivers a toy line centered around the Easy Connect track system. Available now at retailers worldwide, the new line features e larger-scale engines, motorized engines, magnetic connectors, and more. 

Thomas & Friends will also appear in a pop-up experience at the High Line in New York City. There, families can experience a life-size Thomas train, branded displays, photo ops, themed activations, and a special premiere screening. The event takes place Oct. 2 from 5–7 p.m., with free admission for all fans.

To learn more about Thomas & Friends, visit mattel.com/thomasfriends

About the author

Taylor Battle

Taylor Battle

Taylor is an assistant editor at The Toy Insider, The Pop Insider, and The Toy Book. Between reading fantasy novels and re-watching Disney classics, she can be found building houses in The Sims 4. Taylor is passionate about creating and is always looking to try new things.

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