Scottish star Gerard Butler is set to revive his role as Viking chief Stoick the Vast in the upcoming live-action How to Train Your Dragon — and it seems a simple invite sealed the deal.
Butler revealed he received a call asking him to spend a day in Belfast to see what was being built there, and the rest is cinematic history.
Filmed in Northern Ireland, the movie adapts the beloved animated trilogy with Mason Thames as Hiccup and Nico Parker as Astrid, all under the direction of original creator Dean DeBlois. Butler's involvement stands out — he’s the only major voice cast member crossing over from animation to live-action, lending authentic gravitas to the remake.
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The film uses Belfast’s stunning locations to bring the mythical world of Berk to life. Butler’s visit made him feel connected to the scale and heart of the project, and he admits the experience clinched his decision to get back in character.
Slated for release in June 2025, this live-action version promises the same heartfelt journey of friendship between Hiccup and Toothless, now reimagined with real-world scenery — and Butler, once again, leading the Viking charge.
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