Early in his career, Angelis became known in his native England for his role in the British TV series “Boys from the Blackstuff” (1982). In 1991, he replaced Ringo Starr as the narrator of “Thomas the Tank Engine,” later known as “Thomas & Friends.” Angelis narrated the British version of the beloved children’s show from 1991 to 2012, also narrating two episodes of the U.S. version. He also contributed voice work to several Thomas video games and films. Angelis was also known for roles in TV dramas including “September Song” and “GBH.”
— GleamingRedPride #PrideMonth 🏳️🌈 (@GleamingRed) May 30, 2020
RIP Michael Angelis who starred in Boys from the Blackstuff, a brutally honest depiction of joblessness and despair in 80s Liverpool. He was a brilliant actor who portrayed characters from Liverpool with a warmth and an honesty at a time when the city was much maligned. pic.twitter.com/M5fNPFFcTh
— Scarred for Life (@ScarredForLife2) May 31, 2020
Sad to wake up to the news of the passing of #MichaelAngelis . The voice of a generation with Thomas the tank engine. Powerful as Chrissy Todd in Blackstuff and for those with a really good memory. Lucien in The Liver Birds who just loved his rabbits. pic.twitter.com/iST8gE76P9
News editor, Legacy.com. Named 2017's Obituary Writer of the Year by the Society of Professional Obituary Writers. Quoted by CNN, the New York Times, and Macleans.
