Mason Thames Bio
Mason Thames (born July 10, 2007) is an American actor who rose to prominence with his breakout lead performance in The Black Phone (2021). Born in Dallas, Texas, he began acting in 2017 and quickly earned recognition for his ability to convey emotion and tension on screen. Thames expanded his repertoire with roles across film and television, including the live-action How to Train Your Dragon (2025) and the romantic drama Regretting You, which drew attention from awards bodies. Known for his youthful presence, disciplined craft, and steady ascent in Hollywood, Thames has established himself as a rising talent whose work continues to garner critical notice and fan interest across genres.
Early Life and Background
Mason Thames was born on July 10, 2007, in Dallas, Texas. He was raised in McKinney and attended school in Prosper, Texas. From an early age, Thames demonstrated a natural inclination toward performance, though specific details about his initial exposure to acting remain limited in public sources. His upbringing in the Dallas-Fort Worth area provided him with opportunities to pursue his interest in the craft as he grew older.
At age 10, Thames made the decision to begin his acting career, launching his journey into the entertainment industry in 2017. His family supported his ambitions, which allowed him to balance his education with his growing commitment to acting. The combination of his Texas roots and early start in the industry would later contribute to his distinctive presence on screen.
Path to Actor
Thames made his acting debut in 2017 in the short film After Omelas, playing the character Liam. This initial role marked the beginning of his professional acting journey and provided him with foundational experience in front of the camera. The following years saw him gradually building his craft and resume through various projects that would prepare him for larger opportunities.
In 2019, Thames secured a notable role, appearing in three episodes of the first season of the Apple TV+ series For All Mankind. This appearance on a major streaming platform represented a significant step forward in his career, exposing him to a wider audience and allowing him to work alongside established professionals in the industry. The experience gained from this project would prove invaluable as he continued to develop his skills and pursue more substantial roles.
Mason Thames Career
Early Career (2017–2020)
Following his debut in After Omelas, Thames continued to build his experience through television work. His appearance in For All Mankind in 2019 demonstrated his growing abilities as a performer and opened doors to additional opportunities in the competitive landscape of young Hollywood actors.
During this formative period, Thames also appeared as the younger version of Cordell Walker in the television series Walker during its first two seasons. This recurring role allowed him to handle more substantial screen time and develop his ability to portray characters across extended narrative arcs. These early experiences collectively prepared him for the breakthrough opportunity that would define his career trajectory.
Breakthrough (2021)
The year 2021 marked a transformative moment in Mason Thames career. He was cast in the lead role of Finney Blake in director Scott Derrickson’s horror film The Black Phone. The role required Thames to carry the film as its central character, a responsibility he fulfilled with remarkable skill. His performance garnered widespread acclaim from critics and audiences alike, establishing him as a formidable young talent in the industry.
Director Scott Derrickson commented on Thames casting, noting that among hundreds of applicants, Thames stood out due to his exceptional ability to truthfully and emotionally process every moment on camera. Derrickson observed that Thames possessed a gift that very few actors, even experienced adult professionals, demonstrate: the capacity to deliver authentic emotional performances in single takes without overacting. This natural talent, evident in his eyes and countenance, distinguished Thames from other candidates and secured him the career-defining role.
Notable Works and Milestones
Following the success of The Black Phone, Thames reprised his role as Finney Blake in the 2025 sequel, Black Phone 2. He also starred in the comedy film Incoming (2024) and the independent film Monster Summer. However, the most significant milestone came in 2025 when Thames was cast as Hiccup Horrendous Haddock III in the live-action remake of How to Train Your Dragon, a role that brought him to mainstream international recognition. This performance earned him a Saturn Award nomination, cementing his status as one of the most promising young actors in contemporary cinema.
Mason Thames Award Nominations
Throughout his career, Mason Thames has garnered recognition from major awards bodies for his performances. His most notable nomination came in 2025 when he was recognized by the Saturn Awards for his portrayal of Hiccup in How to Train Your Dragon. He also received a Saturn Award nomination for his role in Regretting You, demonstrating the breadth of his abilities across different genres. These nominations reflect the industry’s acknowledgment of his talent and contributions to the craft at a remarkably young age.
Mason Thames Awards Won
Based on available information, no major award wins have been verified for Mason Thames. While he has received nominations for prestigious awards, including the Saturn Awards, confirmed victories at major industry ceremonies have not been established through verified sources. This section will be updated should future verified award wins become available.
Mason Thames Family
Public information regarding Mason Thames family background, including his parents, siblings, or other family connections, remains limited. Thames has maintained a relatively private approach to his family life, and specific details about his relatives have not been widely reported in verified sources.
Personal Life
Mason Thames is reported to be in a relationship with actress Mckenna Grace, beginning in 2026. Grace is also an established young actress known for her roles in various film and television projects. Thames continues to balance his professional commitments with his personal development, though he maintains a private approach to sharing details about his private life with the public.