Nick Frost on Gobber’s LGBTQ representation took center stage when the actor addressed long-standing speculation about Gobber’s character in the How to Train Your Dragon franchise. During an interview with CinemaBlend, Frost openly discussed the potential for Gobber to be confirmed as queer in the upcoming live-action adaption, marking a significant moment for representation within the series.
Gobber’s Character and Lingering Questions
Fans of How to Train Your Dragon have long suspected there may be more to Gobber, the beloved Viking blacksmith, than meets the eye. His rugged demeanor, emotional openness, and memorable quip in the second film about why he never married have fueled ongoing lore about his possible LGBTQ identity. Audiences often found themselves wondering,
Wait… Gobber might be gay, right?
—you’re not alone. A singular moment in the franchise’s history sparked lasting discussion and the emergence of Gobber as a quietly queer-coded favorite, especially as his distinctive style and wit set him apart from other characters in Berk.
Nick Frost Addresses Gobber’s Identity
In a recent conversation with Jeff McCobb from CinemaBlend, Nick Frost was asked directly about Gobber’s sexuality as he takes on the role in the soon-to-be-released live-action version. Frost, often described as an unexpected gay icon reminiscent of classics like Golden Girls or cult metaphors such as The Babadook, responded candidly:
“I think it’s true. I don’t think it’s a theory, right? Has it been? I don’t think [Dean DeBlois] has confirmed, but, yeah, I think potentially Gobber is gay. Which is great, because I think he’d have a lovely gay dragon as well.”
—Nick Frost, Actor
His assertion that the question was less theory and more reality carried weight for many invested in both the franchise and queer representation. Frost’s remark about Gobber having “a lovely gay dragon” immediately caught attention, sparking imaginations and fan art ideas among devoted followers.
The Seeds of Representation in the Franchise
Discussion about Gobber’s identity is not limited to recent interviews or fandom musings. The infamous line in How to Train Your Dragon 2—where Gobber casually references not marrying—ignited years of discourse and theories. Rather than wishful reading, Frost suggested that this aspect of Gobber might be given explicit acknowledgment in the new adaptation. In the interview, he hinted at further developments:
“But then, you know, we’ve been greenlit for two. So, again, this is an aspect to Gobber’s personality that we will start to see hopefully bloom.”
—Nick Frost, Actor
The term “bloom” implies a gentle but definitive move towards allowing Gobber’s queerness to take root and become visible, signifying the possibility of broader representation in the series.
Nick Frost’s Own Icon Status
Nick Frost’s place as an unexpected figure within the LGBTQ community adds a unique dynamic to his portrayal of Gobber. When asked about his reputation as a gay icon, he shared:
“I’ve enjoyed my gay iconage for a while now. And I was even offered the cover of [American Bear]…I was, yes, but I had to turn it down sadly. My outfit was going to be like a tiny, Navy thing or pearl-handled pistols and chaps.”
—Nick Frost, Actor
He also previously described his dream magazine cover outfit, stating,
“White chaps, a kind of white cowboy vest and a tiny little cowboy hat” and “two little revolvers.”
—Nick Frost, Actor
This playful self-awareness and continuity in Frost’s public persona reinforce both his connection to queer audiences and his compatibility with bringing a new dimension to Gobber’s character.
Impact on the Franchise and Future Possibilities
With the announcement of multiple live-action How to Train Your Dragon movies in development, there are fresh opportunities to expand on the themes historically embedded in the franchise—difference, community, and chosen family. While Gobber doesn’t need exaggerated symbolism, offering him an explicitly queer love story, whether involving a Viking partner or a fantastical dragon, would mark a meaningful leap forward for LGBTQ visibility in mainstream family media.
The series has always championed empathy and the embrace of diversity in the tight-knit world of Berk. Having an older, rough-around-the-edges queer character like Gobber at the forefront reflects a notable evolution, breaking away from the stereotypes usually present in animation. If Nick Frost’s vision takes shape, Gobber may soon stand as a queer elder among Vikings, potentially in the company of a likewise spirited dragon.
The Road Ahead for Gobber and Representation
Gobber’s journey from beloved side character to possible LGBTQ trailblazer signifies more than just a narrative twist. It opens doors for expanding representation of older and more nuanced queer characters in genres where they have often been overlooked. As live-action productions move forward, fans and advocates alike will be paying close attention to how Gobber’s story develops with Nick Frost in the role—and to whether his “blooming” truly comes to life on screen. A Viking with heart, courage, and new space to love, Gobber may yet become a landmark figure for families and LGBTQ audiences.
