- Celebrities. Katy Perry's recent statements would throw out rumors of her breakup with Orlando Bloom
- Celebrities. Brad Pitt reflects on personal growth amidst ongoing family struggles
The magical world of Berk is making its way to the big screen once again, this time in a live-action adaptation of DreamWorks' beloved How to Train Your Dragon franchise.
Set to premiere on June 13, the film reunites fans with iconic characters such as Hiccup, Astrid, and Stoick in a brand-new cinematic format. With original trilogy director Dean DeBlois at the helm, the casting choices are already sparking excitement, debate, and plenty of anticipation.
Taking on the role of Hiccup Horrendous Haddock III is rising star Mason Thames, best known for his breakout performance in The Black Phone. Thames is stepping into the shoes of the brave but awkward Viking teen whose bond with a dragon forever changes his village.
Opposite Thames is Nico Parker, who portrays the fierce and loyal Astrid Hofferson. Parker's casting prompted mixed reactions from audiences who expected an exact visual match to the animated character, but she addressed the criticism with poise.
"I can't value your opinion on my hair," Parker said, emphasizing that her portrayal would focus on Astrid's character rather than her appearance.
One of the biggest surprises of the casting announcement was the return of Gerard Butler as Stoick the Vast, Hiccup's powerful yet loving father.
Butler voiced the character throughout the original animated trilogy, and his return adds a strong thread of continuity between the old and new versions.
Fans will once again hear the familiar voice and see a more grounded version of Stoick brought to life through Butler's performance. His presence provides an emotional anchor to the film, linking generations of How to Train Your Dragon storytelling.
The cast also includes Nick Frost as Gobber the Belch, Stoick's trusted friend and the village blacksmith. Frost brings his signature wit to the role of the eccentric mentor who helps guide Hiccup both in combat and dragon training.
The film will also reintroduce Hiccup's band of Viking peers. Julian Dennison plays Fishlegs Ingerman, the sweet-natured dragon nerd. Gabriel Howell steps in as Snotlout Jorgenson, the brash and overconfident rival.
Meanwhile, the boisterous twins Ruffnut and Tuffnut Thorston are portrayed by Bronwyn James and Harry Trevaldwyn, whose chemistry captures the chaotic sibling energy the characters are known for.
New characters and returning creatives strengthen the adaptation
Adding to the cast is Ruth Codd as Phlegma the Fierce, a new female Viking character designed to expand the story's ing world.
Also ing the ensemble are Peter Serafinowicz as Spitelout, Snotlout's strict father, and Murray McArthur, whose role is still under wraps but is rumored to have ties to Berk's political leadership.