Hiccup’s father in “How to Train Your Dragon,” Stoick already has a face for the live-action movie, Gerard Butler, the same actor who voiced him in the animated version.
Gerard Butler, known for his strong action roles and iconic voice, steps into Stoic’s shoes once again in the live-action adaptation of “How to Train Your Dragon” from Universal Pictures. The news, confirmed by sources close to Deadline, has sent waves of emotion among fans of the DreamWorks animation franchise.
Reconnecting with the past
Butler, who portrayed Hiccup’s father Stock in the original films, returns to play the fearsome Viking chieftain in this new version. Joining him on this adventure are Mason Thames and Nico Parker playing Hiccup and Astrid respectively, with Dean DeBloss as the mastermind behind the original trilogy as director, writer and producer.
The film is scheduled to hit the audiences on June 13, 2025. The original trilogy captivated audiences of all ages, grossing over $1.6 billion at the box office, and this new installment promises to continue that legacy.
Primary production team
Marc Platt directs the production of this cinematic gem under the label Marc Platt Productions with company president Adam Siegel. Lexi Barta, vice president of production, oversees the project on behalf of Universal.
The choice of new faces for Hiccup and Astrid, now being played by younger actors, contrasts with the decision to keep Butler as stock. This strategic move not only pays homage to the original cast, but also strengthens fans’ emotional connection to the saga.
Gerard Butler: A journey through his most iconic roles
Gerard Butler, a name synonymous with versatility in Hollywood, left an indelible mark with a series of roles that challenged and defined his career. Butler has shown an impressive level of acting since her first foray into the film industry to her current level of fame.
“300”: King Leonidas and the Spartan Epic
Perhaps one of his greatest works is that of King Leonidas in “300”. This representation of the heroic Spartan king became a cultural phenomenon known for its physical and emotional strength. The famous line “This is Sparta!” It is etched into the collective memory as a symbol of Butler’s heroism and leadership.
“Phantom of the Opera”: Music and Romance
Butler surprised the world with his performance in “The Phantom of the Opera”, showing his versatility. Playing deep romantic and musical roles, he has shown his unique talent by winning the hearts of music and film fans.
“Olympus has fallen” and “Cen of Thieves”: action hero
With “Olympus Has Fallen” and its sequels, as well as “Den of Thieves,” Butler established his reputation as a bona fide action hero. These films were not only box office hits, but also underscored his ability to direct high-octane films, effectively balancing drama and action.
“PS I love you”: turning to love
In “PS I Love You,” Butler explores the genre of romance and once again demonstrates his ability to adapt to different storytelling styles. Her emotional and authentic performance in this romantic drama resonated with the audience, proving that her talent goes beyond action roles.
A leader in the industry
These roles not only show the diversity of Butler’s choices, but also highlight her ability to fully immerse herself in each character. From the Spartan warrior to the hopeless romance, Butler has left an indelible mark on each one, spanning a wide variety of genres.
The news of his return in “How to Train Your Dragon” is further testament to his ability to entertain audiences regardless of genre or format. His career, rich in memorable characters, cemented his place as one of the most dynamic and respected actors of his generation.