Thomas & Friends introduces Bruno, the pun-making brake car! | Source: Mattel

All aboard! 

Mattel‘s Thomas & Friends is expanding its character lineup with the inclusion of Bruno, the first autistic character in the franchise. Bruno was developed in collaboration with different organizations such as the Autistic Self Advocacy Network and Easterseals Southern California, as well as writers and spokespeople with autism such as Daniel Share-Strom and Aaron Likens. 

Bruno’s lantern indicates his emotional state. | Source: Mattel

Bruno is a joyful, pun-making brake car. He keeps heavy cargo steady with his strong brakes and rolls in reverse at the end of the train, giving him a unique perspective. Bruno has stairs and carries a lantern on his bright red exterior that indicates his emotional state, moving when he’s excited or cautious. His rich friendships and important work shows viewers a positive, neurodivergent role model. 

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Although Bruno reflects the traits and preferences of some autistic people, Mattel is aware that an animated character could never encompass the real-life experiences of every autistic person. Bruno will be a key character within the Thomas & Friends franchise with his introduction spanning across all content, including the YouTube series, music album, the Thomas & Friends Storytime podcast, and the upcoming Mystery of Lookout Mountain special. His consumer products are set to debut later this year. 

Bruno will make his franchise debut in the new season of Thomas & Friends: All Engines Go, set to release on Sept. 12th at 8:30 am ET on Cartoon Network. Check out the trailer below! 

About the author

Hannah Sacks

Hannah Sacks

Hannah Sacks was an editorial assistant at The Toy Insider, The Pop Insider, and The Toy Book. An avid reader, her first love is late Victorian literature paired with a huge plate of dumplings. When she’s not reading, she loves to attend concerts, cook elaborate dinners, and snuggle up with her two cats, Oscar and Percy.

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