The Thomas And Buddies franchise has at all times been recognized for being inclusive. The introduction of Bruno the Brake Automobile is not any totally different. Bruno is the primary autistic character ever included within the franchise, and it appears 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 automotive. He’s nice at his job and retains large, heavy cargo regular together with his sturdy brakes — an important function in ‘Thomas & Buddies: All Engines Go.’ Bruno rolls in reverse on the finish of the practice, which provides him a novel 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, purple exterior that point out his emotional state, shifting when he’s excited or cautious. Bruno’s finest day is one spent together with his mates, who love and respect him for who he’s, simply as he loves them again. By means of his on-screen presence, Bruno’s wealthy friendships and vital 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 baby in the actual world.
Two representatives for Mattel additionally spoke to Selection, sharing some ideas on the brand new character. They stated:
Constructive illustration is so vital and characters like Bruno can change this in two methods. Primary, he’ll present autistic youngsters that they’ve the suitable to exist and that their challenges are reliable, their strengths are actual, and they’re simply as invaluable to their households and communities as anyone else. On the similar time, neurotypical youngsters and households will acquire new perception into their autistic family and friends as Bruno challenges their preconceptions and provides them concepts for methods they’ll genuinely assist folks to stay their very best lives.
This current promo clip from the present options Bruno:
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