The Thomas And Pals franchise has at all times been identified for being inclusive. The introduction of Bruno the Brake Automobile isn’t any totally different. Bruno is the primary autistic character ever included within the franchise, and it seems to be just like the creators of the present went to nice lengths to make sure that Bruno is an correct illustration of autism.
The present paired with the Autistic Self-Advocacy Community, a non-profit group that’s run by people on the autism spectrum. Mattel’s official character description for Bruno reads:
Bruno is a joyful, pun-making brake automobile. He’s nice at his job and retains large, heavy cargo regular together with his robust brakes — an important function in ‘Thomas & Pals: All Engines Go.’ Bruno rolls in reverse on the finish of the prepare, which provides him a singular perspective on the world. Element-oriented Bruno enjoys schedules, routine, and is aware of the place all of the tracks lead on Sodor. Bruno has stairs and a lantern on his vibrant, pink exterior that point out his emotional state, shifting when he’s excited or cautious. Bruno’s greatest day is one spent together with his buddies, who love and respect him for who he’s, simply as he loves them again. Via his on-screen presence, Bruno’s wealthy friendships and essential work introduces audiences to a constructive, neurodivergent function mannequin. Along with key companions, Mattel rigorously curated Bruno’s character to make sure an correct fictional illustration of an autistic youngster in the true world.
Two representatives for Mattel additionally spoke to Selection, sharing some ideas on the brand new character. They mentioned:
Constructive illustration is so essential and characters like Bruno can change this in two methods. Primary, he’ll present autistic children that they’ve the proper to exist and that their challenges are respectable, their strengths are actual, and they’re simply as invaluable to their households and communities as anyone else. On the similar time, neurotypical children and households will acquire new perception into their autistic family and friends as Bruno challenges their preconceptions and offers them concepts for methods they will genuinely assist individuals to dwell their very best lives.
This current promo clip from the present options Bruno:
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