Gerard Butler, known for his voice role as Stoick the Vast in the animated How to Train Your Dragon series, is set to reprise this character in the upcoming 2025 live-action remake, as per Deadline. The original DreamWorks Animation movies, which began in 2010, have been a significant success, grossing over US$1.6 billion worldwide and receiving four Academy Award nominations.
The live-action adaptation will feature Mason Thames of The Black Phone fame as Hiccup, Stoick’s son, and Nico Parker from The Last of Us as Astrid. The return of Butler to the franchise marks a significant link to the original series. Dean DeBlois, who was integral to the animated series, returns to write, direct, and produce this new adaptation.
Butler’s casting as the Viking leader Stoick may hint at the potential return of other original voice cast members. The adult voice cast in the animated series featured notable talents like Kristen Wiig, Jonah Hill, David Tennant, and Cate Blanchett. The live-action version offers an opportunity for these actors to physically embody their characters.
Renowned for his historical action roles, including Leonidas in the 300 franchise, Gerard Butler has recently been seen in thrillers like Plane and Kandahar, and is also working on a sequel to Den of Thieves.
The animated How to Train Your Dragon series, based on Cressida Cowell’s best-selling books, captivated audiences with the story of Hiccup and his dragon Toothless. The series comprises three films: the original in 2010, a sequel in 2014, and the final installment, The Hidden World, in 2019.
The live-action version of How to Train Your Dragon is set to soar in theatres on 13 June 2025.
Natalie is a big fan of anything related to movies, TV shows, games, and comics — you name it. When she’s not reading or geeking out about the latest shows on Netflix, she’s probably playing Honkai: Star Rail, cosplaying, or daydreaming of meeting her idols.
