Universal Pictures is advancing its live-action adaptation of the How to Train Your Dragon series, based on Cressida Cowell’s novels and Dean DeBlois’s animated films. Following the strong global performance of the first movie, which earned $636 million, the studio has revealed key cast members for the upcoming sequel, including Cate Blanchett in a prominent role.
Cate Blanchett Returns as Viking Warrior Valka
In this second chapter, Cate Blanchett will portray Valka, a Viking warrior and the long-lost mother of Hiccup, played by Mason Thames. She will also be the wife of Stoick, the Viking chief portrayed once again by Gerard Butler. Blanchett, who previously voiced Valka in the animated adaptations, brings continuity and depth to the live-action rendition of the character.
Additional Cast and Creative Team Insights
The sequel introduces Icelandic actor Ólafur Darri Ólafsson as Drago, the central antagonist, a role once voiced by Djimon Hounsou in the original animated films. Alongside Mason Thames and Gerard Butler, familiar faces like Nico Parker, Julian Dennison, Gabriel Howell, Bronwyn James, and Harry Trevaldwyn are confirmed to return. Dean DeBlois remains deeply involved as writer, director, and executive producer.
Anticipation Builds for the 2027 Release
How to Train Your Dragon 2 is slated for release in 2027, requiring patience from fans eager to see Cate Blanchett and Ólafur Darri Ólafsson in their new roles. This continuation promises to expand the world viewers have come to appreciate from both the novels and the animated films, blending familiar characters with new interpretations.
