Mason Thames has shared insights into the powerful energy Gerard Butler brought to the set of How to Train Your Dragon. In a conversation with PEOPLE magazine, the 17-year-old actor, who portrays Hiccup in the 2025 live-action remake of the 2010 American fantasy adventure film, revealed that Butler embodied the spirit of a true viking during filming.
Thames commented on the 55-year-old Scottish actor and film producer, stating, “When he would walk on set, you would feel that presence.” He further added, “It’s insane to see it in person and him bringing that character to life with the voice, the energy, the giant brute force that Stoick is — him bringing that to life was so incredible to watch.”
The Black Phone 2 star went on to observe that Butler was captivating to watch and exuded power when he transformed into the formidable chief of Berk. “I feel like he would walk on set and everybody would kind of cower a little bit, including myself,” he quipped, noting that the cast and crew on set frequently saw the Den Of Thieves 2 star in full costume and makeup, complete with armor and beard, and would affectionately refer to him as “chief.”
It is noteworthy that How to Train Your Dragon, in which Butler reprises his role as Stoick the Vast from the animated films, was released on June 13, 2025.
