While the name “Thunderbirds” might not resonate with today’s younger viewers, there was a time when it was at the pinnacle of children’s television. This classic sci-fi series, which still enjoys a devoted following, was the brainchild of renowned British producer Gerry Anderson. Featuring innovative storytelling and the distinctive “Supermarionation” technique, “Thunderbirds” first captivated audiences in 1965. The series follows the heroic Tracy family, who employ cutting-edge technology and their iconic Thunderbird machines to safeguard humanity. Interestingly, the concept drew inspiration from Anderson’s older brother, Lionel, a Royal Air Force pilot who perished during World War II. Some speculate that the show’s title was derived from Thunderbird Field, the airbase where Lionel trained.

In an interview with Radio Times for the show’s 60th anniversary in 2025, Gerry’s son, Jamie Anderson, reflected on the series’ enduring appeal. “The challenging experiences of his childhood gave rise to themes that universally resonate—such as family being the core of everything,” Jamie explained. He noted that the family dynamics portrayed in “Thunderbirds” mirrored Gerry’s own life, marked by a strained parental relationship and the heroism of his brother. “It wasn’t a joyful upbringing, and his brother stood as a heroic figure,” Jamie added.

Despite its brief two-year run, “Thunderbirds” spawned two feature films—“Thunderbirds Are Go” in 1966 and “Thunderbird 6” in 1968—and inspired a star-studded live-action adaptation in 2004 featuring Bill Paxton. The series owes much of its legacy to Lionel Anderson, a wartime pilot who made the ultimate sacrifice.

Before becoming a muse for his brother’s television series, Lionel Anderson had an intriguing connection to Hollywood. Historian Sean Feast delved into Lionel’s life in his book, “A Thunder Bird in Bomber Command,” which draws heavily from Lionel’s wartime letters. Feast’s research reveals that Lionel frequently mingled with Hollywood’s elite before his military service.

Despite being an RAF pilot during World War II, Lionel Anderson actually had a connection to Hollywood, long before he served as an inspiration for his younger brother’s TV series, “Thunderbirds.” As it happens, historian Sean Feast devoted an entire book to the life and service of Lionel Anderson, “A Thunder Bird in Bomber Command,” based largely on a series of letters written by the pilot to his family back home before and during the war. According to Feast’s research, Lionel often spent time with Hollywood stars before serving in the war.

Sent to America to train ahead of his service, Lionel mingled with actors and Tinseltown starlets before being sent on operations back in Europe. “He got to dance with Joan Fontaine and said how lovely she was; He met Judy Garland and some of the other biggest stars of the time,” said Feast in a chat with the Watford Observer. In fact, while some insist that the name “Thunderbirds” came from his training airfield, it may have really come from the 1942 war film “Thunder Birds,” starring Gene Tierney, in which Lionel worked as an extra. The film ultimately helped inspire Gerry Anderson to create his own action series of the same name.

“Lionel and the other pilots were all used as extras, and he writes [in his letters home] at some length about taking part,” Feast told the newspaper. “They were all on screen, marching past in glorious technicolor in this wonderful film.” Of course, that film roused Gerry Anderson, and soon “Thunderbirds” were go.