(Image Source: Pinterest, Universal Pictures)
The live-action "How to Train Your Dragon" film, which soared past $600 million globally last summer, wasted no time in beginning production on its sequel last November. However, new casting details for the second installment were only just announced today.
The Hollywood Reporter (THR) exclusively revealed today that Oscar winner Cate Blanchett has officially signed on to reprise her role as Valka, Hiccup's mother, in the live-action sequel. Blanchett previously voiced the character in the second and third animated "How to Train Your Dragon" films. Following the news, the official "How to Train Your Dragon" social media accounts quickly re-shared the report, confirming her return.
(Image Source: Universal Pictures)
Blanchett marks the second star from the animated "How to Train Your Dragon" series to transition from voice actor to live-action performer. Gerard Butler, who voiced Valka's husband, Stoick, in the animated trilogy, was the first original cast member to return for the first live-action film, reprising his role.
The live-action "How to Train Your Dragon 2" will once again be written and directed by Dean DeBlois, who helmed the animated trilogy. Mason Thames returns as Hiccup, Nico Parker as Astrid, Julian Dennison as Fishlegs, and Butler as Stoick, among other returning cast members. The film is slated for release in North America on June 11, 2027.