Thomas & Friends is a popular children's television series that features a group of talking trains and their adventures on the fictional island of Sodor. The main character, Thomas the Tank Engine, is a cheerful blue steam engine who loves to help his friends and learn valuable lessons about friendship, teamwork, and responsibility. The show was created by Rev. W. Awdry and first aired in 1984. It is based on a series of books written by Awdry, which tell stories about trains and their experiences. Over the years, Thomas & Friends has expanded into movies, merchandise, and live shows, captivating young audiences worldwide.