Gerard Butler Almost Recast for Being Too Small in How To Train Your Dragon

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Initially, Gerard Butler was close to being replaced for the live-action adaptation of “How To Train Your Dragon,” which is set to hit theaters on June 13th. This fresh take on the 2010 animated film revolves around a Viking boy named Hiccup and his friendship with a dragon called Toothless. The original screenwriter and director, Dean DeBlois, are overseeing the project. In addition to Mason Thames, Nico Parker, and Nick Frost, the cast features other notable actors. Butler, who provided the voice for the Viking leader Stoick in the animated film, assumes the role of Hiccup’s father in the live-action remake.

According to an interview with Empire Magazine, Butler and DeBlois disclosed the challenging process they went through to ensure the original Stoick character was portrayed in the remake by the same actor. DeBlois elaborated on this, stating that at first, scheduling issues arose, and other potential actors were considered for the role. However, the actor himself expressed reservations about whether he was the ideal fit for the character. Here are their respective statements:

[Actor’s Comment] – “I wasn’t sure I was right for it anymore. It was a big part of my life and I didn’t want to mess it up.”

[Director’s Comment] – “There were scheduling conflicts, and we considered other actors, but Gerard ultimately won us over again with his passion and dedication to the role.

I reached out to Gerry, telling him, “I wanted to let you know that we made an effort, and it’s quite disheartening for me to realize you couldn’t take on the responsibility.

As a fan, I instantly exclaimed, “Hold on, hold on!” It seemed like they were suggesting someone else, perhaps questioning, “Why don’t we go for someone more prominent?” However, it took great effort for Dean to secure me.

What This Means For How To Train Your Dragon

Both Gerard Butler & Dean DeBlois Fought Hard To Keep The Original Stoick Voice Actor In The Remake

Besides Butler being the only voice actor reprising his role in the How To Train Your Dragon series, DeBlois highlighted the actor’s passion for Vikings and mythology. Moreover, he emphasized that the actor’s ability to tap into personal experiences to deeply explore the father-son relationship makes him an ideal choice to portray the tribe’s leader.

In that same interview, the director elaborated that the storyline of “How To Train Your Dragon” primarily focuses on a coming-of-age theme, delving into the challenges of “living up to parental expectations.” During the casting process for Hiccup, the director faced obstacles in finding an actor who could portray both a gangly demeanor and maintain a sense of vulnerability. Ultimately, Thames’ performance in The Black Phone was instrumental in securing his role.

Our Take On Gerard Butler’s Role In How To Train Your Dragon

Gerard Butler Is The Perfect Stoick

The trailer for “How To Train Your Dragon” reveals glimpses of Butler’s Viking father character, who grapples with leadership issues and strains in his relationship with his growing son. Although Stoick, the live-action portrayal, may not tower as massively as his animated counterpart, the actor delivers an impressive performance capturing the emotional turbulence experienced by his character.

The scenes featuring Stoick in the trailers are quite expressive, almost as if they were speaking volumes without words. Butler’s portrayal of the Viking leader brings a richness to the character that might not have been possible otherwise. This remarkable performance was made possible by the shared passion and commitment between the director and the actor towards the live-action adaptation of How To Train Your Dragon.

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2025-05-10 00:44