Butler Calls Dragon Remake 'Destiny' Despite Fan Backlash
The Scottish actor almost missed his chance to return as Stoick the Vast when scheduling conflicts threatened his involvement in the live-action adaptation that critics are calling unnecessary.
Gerard Butler nearly walked away from reprising his Viking chief role in the live-action How to Train Your Dragon remake. Scheduling conflicts with another project almost derailed his return as Stoick the Vast, but a last-minute shift in timing allowed the Scottish actor to step back into the character he first voiced in 2011.
The original animated film launched a massive franchise for DreamWorks Animation. Two sequels, multiple TV series, video games, books, and even a touring arena show followed over 14 years. When the studio announced a live-action version, most of the original voice cast didn't return. Butler was the notable exception.
A Close Call That Became Fate
Butler was deep in script meetings for another film when director Dean DeBlois tried reaching him about the dragon project. He missed the initial call completely. The timing seemed impossible.
"I got a text from Dean two hours later saying, 'We tried you again. You're not available. I just want you to know I wanted you to do this so much, and I'm heartbroken'," Butler told Forbes. "I said, 'Wait. When is this?' So, the other movie was pushed back, and I could fit this in the middle. It was destiny that the timing worked out, and everything unfolded as it did."
Butler won't say which project got delayed. His filmography suggests two possibilities: In the Hand of Dante or more likely Greenland 2: Migration, the 2026 sequel to his 2020 apocalyptic thriller where he carries more weight as the lead.
Mixed Reception Doesn't Stop Sequel Plans
The live-action remake faced harsh criticism from fans and critics alike. Many called it a cash grab lacking the heart of the beloved original. Mason Thames took over the Hiccup role from Jay Baruchel, who would have been too old for the part at over 40.
Box office numbers and reviews painted a grim picture. Fans who grew up with the animated series dismissed it as a waste of time. The reboot couldn't capture what made the original a genuine classic.
Despite the poor reception, DreamWorks is already developing a second live-action installment. Butler seems enthusiastic about returning for more dragon adventures in the coming years.