For years, fans of Thomas & Friends: All Engines Go have burst into jovial laughter at the running gag where Sir Topham Hatt becomes frustrated with Thomas the Tank Engine and begins strangling him. Unfortunately for these fans, Mattel has confirmed that these jokes will no longer be used in the series.
“We know fans have come to expect Sir Topham Hatt to strangle his mischievous tank engine, but these jokes just don’t work in this day and age.” Mattel spokesman, Matthew Ellis, explained. “Starting in season 3, Sir Topham Hatt won’t choke out Thomas for getting into trouble.”
Fans were not pleased by this announcement in the slightest. Many found enjoyment in this gag.
“I loved watching Thomas flail wildly as Sir Topham Hatt screamed, ‘Why you little!’ and grit his teeth while he wrapped his hands around Thomas’ smokebox.” One fan proclaimed. “Even if these jokes don’t work as well nowadays, it’s become a tradition after two seasons and should stay.”
When asked if any other running gags would be on the chopping block, Mattel explained that they would be considering replacing Victor’s white voice actor with a Hispanic voice actor.
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