**Gerard Butler Swaps Pyjamas for Viking Garb in New Live-Action ‘How To Train Your Dragon’**
British film fans are eagerly anticipating the latest iteration of an animated favourite, ‘How To Train Your Dragon,’ as a live-action adaptation is set to hit cinemas this month. Amongst those making the leap from animation to real-life sets is Scottish actor Gerard Butler, known for an eclectic range of roles—from action blockbusters to romantic comedies. Butler, now 55, is reprising his role as Chief Stoick the Vast, this time stepping out from behind the microphone and onto the screen in flesh and blood.
Speaking at a recent photocall, Butler shared his enthusiasm for the transition. He humourously remarked on the contrast between his previous work in animation and his current live-action portrayal, saying, “It was quite an experience to swap out my pyjamas and actually wear a costume this time around.” Butler previously provided only the voice for his character in the original DreamWorks animated films, never having donned full Viking regalia for the part until now.
Butler further described how fulfilling it felt to bring the character to life in a new way. “Getting to embody Chief Stoick, to stand amongst a set filled with Vikings and immerse myself in the sights and sounds of that world, was incredibly satisfying,” he said. For the actor, whose career spans both high-octane roles and more nuanced performances, the hands-on nature of live action was a significant change.
The new film closely follows the plot of the beloved 2010 animation, which itself was inspired by Cressida Cowell’s popular book series. Audiences will again follow the journey of Hiccup, the young son of Chief Stoick, portrayed by rising star Mason Thames. As in the original, Hiccup’s friendship with the dragon Toothless forces the Viking community to rethink long-held beliefs, setting the stage for both dramatic conflict and heartfelt moments.
Joining Butler in the cast is Nick Frost, the British actor known for his roles in comedy hits such as ‘Hot Fuzz’. Frost takes on the role of Gobber the Belch, a part originally voiced by Craig Ferguson in the animated trilogy. Butler was quick to praise his co-star, describing Frost’s performance as both heartfelt and humorous. “After watching the completed film, I was moved to send Nick a long message just to tell him how brilliant he was,” Butler revealed, highlighting the camaraderie and mutual respect on set.
Butler also expressed his appreciation for the script, which he described as allowing for greater nuance compared to the animation. “In the original films Stoick was often giving grand speeches, but this script gave me space to explore different facets of his character. It felt just like playing in a giant sandbox as a child,” he reflected.
Beyond the individual performances, there is a palpable sense of excitement around the project. The transition from animation to live-action brings new challenges for any franchise, with fans and filmmakers alike eager to see if the heart and soul of the story remain intact. The film’s producers have promised that, while certain aspects will inevitably evolve, the central themes of friendship, identity, and courage will stay true to the original vision.
The live-action adaptation arrives at UK cinemas on Monday, 9 June. It promises not just visual spectacle and adventure but also fresh interpretations of much-loved characters. For Butler, the change in format was an opportunity to revisit a world he’s been part of for over a decade, this time in a way he hopes will connect with both returning fans and new audiences.
As the release date approaches, British cinema-goers and franchise devotees alike will soon discover whether trading pyjamas for in-person costumes was worth it. Early buzz from the cast suggests that this version of ‘How To Train Your Dragon’ could well become a new family favourite.