Gerard Butler returns as Stoick in live-action How to Train Your Dragon, reprising his beloved role in the highly anticipated remake now showing in UK cinemas. The Scottish actor, who first brought the Viking chieftain Stoick the Vast to life in the original animated trilogy, is the only member of the original voice cast to join the live-action project, reaffirming his connection to the character and the story’s legacy.
This return comes as a result of fortuitous timing during the 2023 industry strikes, which allowed Butler to participate in the Universal Pictures production. Director Dean DeBlois, who co-directed the original animation, also leads the new film, ensuring creative continuity and a familiar vision for fans of the franchise. Butler’s reprisal not only excites longtime admirers, but it strengthens the emotional resonance at the heart of this ongoing cinematic journey.
The Only Original Cast Member to Return
In a rare move for big-screen remakes, Gerard Butler’s presence bridges the animated and live-action versions of How to Train Your Dragon. Throughout the production process, there was some doubt about whether Butler would be able to return as Stoick, due to scheduling uncertainties caused by industry-wide stoppages in 2023. Director Dean DeBlois explained that Butler’s participation was possible only when the shoot was rescheduled around the effects of the 2023 strikes, a serendipitous turn that allowed fans to see him embody Stoick in person for the first time.
Butler expressed his personal connection to Stoick during an interview with RadioTimes.com, reinforcing how much the character means to him and how important it felt to reprise this role. The decision was not only about professional continuity, but also about honoring the legacy and the audience’s emotional attachment to Stoick the Vast.
“Well, listen, I love this franchise no matter what’s happening,”
—Gerard Butler, Actor
He admitted that seeing someone else play the character would have felt unnatural to him, and returning as Stoick was both a privilege and a personal relief. The live-action film gave Butler the chance to explore Stoick beyond voice acting, delving physically and emotionally into the Viking chief’s persona.
“When you do the voice, you go, ‘What would it be like to actually be this character? What would it be like to actually be in that world?’ And then you go, ‘Would I do it? Would I be terrible at it?’”
—Gerard Butler, Actor
The actor reflected on the prospect of another performer stepping into the role, noting that it would have sparked feelings of loss and curiosity about the character’s translation from animation to real life.
“But yeah, it would have been weird, I think, you know, kind of saying, ‘Why’d he do it like that? I’d have said it like this.’ Or, even worse, like, ‘God, that’s great. I would never thought of that!’”
—Gerard Butler, Actor
Dean DeBlois Leads Both Animated and Live-Action Projects
Director Dean DeBlois returned to helm the live-action remake, ensuring that the spirit of How to Train Your Dragon remained authentic and emotionally rich. DeBlois shares a unique perspective as he previously co-directed the original animation; this makes him not only a creative force behind the project but also a guardian of its legacy. Initially, DeBlois was skeptical about the idea of reimagining an animated classic for live action, voicing concerns that such trends risk undermining originality in the film industry.
“I think it’s the first time, actually, that a studio has come to the original filmmaker and asked the question,”
—Dean DeBlois, Director
Despite his hesitations, DeBlois chose to lead the remake to ensure it would honor the source material rather than simply capitalize on its success. He wanted to preserve the heart, soul, and integrity of the original story while adapting it for a broader and possibly more immersive experience. This approach intended to craft a unique narrative that serves as both a new vision and a faithful tribute to the animation.
“Like, hire me to do it, and I’ll make sure that we keep the heart and soul intact and that we make a movie that’s worthy to stand on its own and isn’t intended to be a replacement of the animated movie, which I’m still very proud of.”
—Dean DeBlois, Director
Transitioning from animation to live action, DeBlois saw opportunities to deepen character development and explore the rich mythology only lightly touched upon in the earlier films. This creative freedom offered new dimensions for familiar characters and environments.
“So it opened up a bunch of possibilities. We could delve into the folklore and the mythology and go deeper with the characters and the relationships and really lean into the immersive quality of the action with all of the tools of live action.”
—Dean DeBlois, Director
Continuity and Change: Why This Return Matters
For audiences, Gerard Butler’s return as Stoick in the live-action How to Train Your Dragon offers a bridge between beloved traditions and new visual storytelling. The live-action adaptation benefits from the involvement of both Butler and DeBlois, providing consistency for long-time fans even as the franchise ventures into uncharted territory. The decision to involve the original director reflects Universal’s commitment to upholding the essence of the story and delivering a film that resonates on its own and in conversation with its animated origins.
With memorable films like Moana 2 and The Brutalist currently capturing attention in UK cinemas, How to Train Your Dragon stands out by blending nostalgia, star power, and creative ambition. As the film continues its theatrical run across the country, its impact is poised to shape discussions around adaptations and the importance of honoring the roots of successful franchises while embracing new possibilities for storytelling and cinematic immersion.
