Reyma Deveza

Photo: Handout/ Universal Pictures and Dreamworks Animation

Article (news)

Gretchen Fullido

ABS-CBN News

<div><img src="https://od2-image-api.abs-cbn.com/prod/editorImage/1749446812740GerardButler_HTTYD.jpg" class="fr-fic fr-dib"/>Photo Courtesy: Universal Pictures and Dreamworks Animation</div>Fans of the beloved animated franchise “How to Train Your Dragon” are in for a treat as Gerard Butler, the Scottish actor renowned for his commanding presence and heartfelt performances, steps into the role of Chief Viking ‘Stoick ‘in the upcoming live-action adaptation. Butler, who initially lent his voice to the animated version of Stoick in 2010, is returning to a character that has touched millions around the globe — this time, in a film directed by Dean DeBlois, the filmmaker behind both the original &quot;How to Train Your Dragon&quot; animated trilogy and the upcoming live-action version.His journey with &quot;How to Train Your Dragon&quot; began 15 years ago. &quot;I&#x27;ve been part of this story from the very beginning, and it’s incredible to see how it’s grown,&quot; Butler said. &quot;Now, stepping into the live-action role, I get to live and breathe this epic set of stories. It’s a whole new level of excitement.&quot;His portrayal of Stoick is layered with emotional depth, capturing the fierce Viking chief’s strength, vulnerability, and fatherly love. &quot;My costume was around 92 pounds — so carrying that weight all day was a workout in itself,&quot; he said. &quot;But it also helped me embody Stoick’s invincibility and power. Yet, beneath all that armor, I wanted to reveal the human side of him — the emotional core that makes him relatable and real.&quot;<div><img src="https://od2-image-api.abs-cbn.com/prod/editorImage/1749446867638HTTYD2.jpg" class="fr-fic fr-dib"/>Photo Courtesy: Universal Pictures and Dreamworks Animation</div>Directed by DeBlois, the genius behind both the original &quot;How to Train Your Dragon&quot; animated films and the new live-action adaptation as well as the “Lilo and Stitch” movies, the project promises to be a visual and emotional masterpiece. &quot;Dean’s vision and storytelling ability are truly exceptional,&quot; Butler said. &quot;He’s crafted a universe that’s rich with wonder, emotion, and depth. His talent elevates everything — from the set design and costumes to the performances.&quot;The live-action film is expected to be a grand-scale epic, and Butler revealed that wearing his armor made him feel &quot;almost invincible.&quot; &quot;Even though it was heavy, it helped me embody Stoick’s strength and leadership,&quot; he explained. &quot;But beneath the armor, I also wanted to explore the emotional and human side of the character — the father, the leader, the man.&quot;Beyond the grand adventure, Butler’s personal life adds a touching layer to his story. He shared that his loyal dog, Shushka, is like his own personal dragon. &quot;Shushka has been my constant companion through thick and thin,&quot; he said. &quot;She’s a soulful, beautiful little being, and she’s brightened my life in ways I can’t even describe. Right now, she’s at the vet, but she’s a survivor — just like the characters we love.&quot;Butler’s connection to &quot;How to Train Your Dragon&quot; extends beyond his live-action role. He was the original voice of Stoick in the 2010 animated film and also provided his voice for the franchise’s two sequels — &quot;How to Train Your Dragon 2&quot; (2014) and &#x27;How to Train Your Dragon: The Hidden World&quot; (2019). His voice work was instrumental in shaping the character’s heroic yet tender personality, making his return in the new film especially meaningful to fans.Butler was quick to praise the talented cast members he worked with. &quot;Mason Thames, who plays my son Hiccup, is extraordinary,&quot; he said with admiration. &quot;He’s so talented and professional — I was blown away by his depth and presence on set. Watching him bring such authenticity and vulnerability to Hiccup was inspiring.&quot;<div><img src="https://od2-image-api.abs-cbn.com/prod/editorImage/1749446925099Toothless_Hiccup (2).jpg" class="fr-fic fr-dib"/>Photo Courtesy: Universal Pictures and Dreamworks Animation</div>He also commended Nico Parker, who portrays Astrid. &quot;Nico is fantastic. She’s confident, natural, and brings such life to her role. Considering her young age, her performance is truly impressive.&quot;The film’s impressive early success is already evident, with a green light for a sequel signaling strong confidence from the studio. &quot;It’s rare for a project to be green-lit before it even hits theaters,&quot; Butler noted. &quot;That’s a huge vote of trust, and I feel privileged to be part of this epic journey.&quot;Butler emphasized the universal appeal of &quot;How to Train Your Dragon.&quot; &quot;It’s a story that resonates with audiences worldwide,&quot; he said. &quot;Seeing fans, especially young ones, connect with these characters and stories is incredibly rewarding.&quot;Butler also sent warm greetings to fans in the Philippines. “Hello to everybody in the Philippines. I can&#x27;t tell you how much I&#x27;m always looking at the Philippines. I have to come and visit there because it looks like the most beautiful place. I also made a movie about the Philippines, you know, in a plane that goes down. Hopefully, I’ll see you all there soon.”Mark your calendars as &quot;How to Train Your Dragon&quot; hits Philippine cinemas on June 11, 2025.<div><a class="fr-green fr-strong" href="https://www.abs-cbn.com/entertainment/showbiz/movies-series/2024/11/21/watch-how-to-train-your-dragon-live-action-teaser-1456" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">WATCH: &#x27;How To Train Your Dragon&#x27; live action teaser</a></div>

Gerard Butler, who initially lent his voice to the animated version of Stoick in 2010, is returning to a character that has touched millions around the globe.

Gerard Butler, who initially lent his voice to the animated version of Stoick in 2010, is returning to a character that has touched millions around the globe.

Gerard Butler brings Viking spirit to live-action 'How to Train Your Dragon'

News

Entertainment

Lifestyle

Sports

Metro.Style

More

Traffic

Manila

Horoscope

Movies & Series

Gerard Butler brings Viking spirit to live-action 'How to Train Your Dragon'

Gretchen Fullido,

ABS-CBN News

Published Jun 09, 2025 02:12 PM PHT

|

Updated Jun 16, 2025 01:49 AM PHT

Read More:

How to train your dragon

Live Action

Animation

Movie

Gerard Butler

Stoick

Viking

Dean Deblois

ABSnews

ABS-CBN is the leading media and entertainment company in the Philippines, offering quality content across TV, radio, digital, and film. Committed to public service and promoting Filipino values, ABS-CBN continues to inspire and connect audiences worldwide.

Corporate

Investors

Governance

International Distribution

Corporate

Governance

Investors

International Distribution

NPC Seal of Registration

Privacy Policy

AI Policy

Terms of Service

Advertise with Us

© 2025 ABS-CBN Corporation. All Rights Reserved.

NPC Seal of Registration

Privacy Policy

Terms of Service

AI Policy

Advertise with Us

© 2025 ABS-CBN Corporation. All Rights Reserved.

NPC Seal of Registration

Privacy Policy

Terms of Service

AI Policy

Advertise with Us

© 2025 ABS-CBN Corporation. All Rights Reserved.