Ever since the trend of live-action movies began, fans have been dreading the prospect of seeing some of their favorite animated classics adapted for the big screen. Given that live-action versions of animated classics can either be too good or too terrible, with more chances of them being the latter, fans were scared when DreamWorks Animation announced the live-action version of How to Train Your Dragon.
For many of us, the How to Train Your Dragon franchise is one of the most memorable ones from our childhood. While we were all apprehensive about the franchise having a live-action version, DreamWorks Animation has so far surprised us with its impeccable graphics and cast, as can be seen from the trailers.
But catching the attention is Mason Thames, the actor playing the beloved ‘dragon trainer’ Hiccup Horrendous Haddock III. A name that has been rapidly rising in Hollywood’s constellation of young stars, Thames has been captivating audiences with his compelling performances and undeniable charisma.
Best known for his breakout role as Finney Blake in the 2022 horror thriller The Black Phone, fans are now eagerly waiting to see how he brings Hiccup to life as the live-action version of How to Train Your Dragon is set to soar into theatres on June 13, 2025. While Thames’ onscreen presence is well-documented, there are many lesser-known facets of his life and career that add depth to his rising star.
Here are some lesser-known facts about the actor that might surprise you.
4. Hiccup Horrendous Haddock III was Mason Thames’ favorite animated hero
Mason Thames‘ connection to Hiccup Horrendous Haddock III from the How to Train Your Dragon franchise runs deep, rooted in childhood admiration for the character, which eventually shaped his aspirations as an actor. In a recent interview with The Hollywood Reporter, the young and upcoming star revealed that he had wanted to play Hiccup from the moment he first saw the character.
I remember watching the trailer for the second movie [2014’s How to Train Your Dragon 2] where Hiccup takes his helmet off, and he’s older. I then watched the movies, of course, and I put myself in his shoes. I was like, ‘I want to be that guy.’ I related to Hiccup so much. God, I never thought that I’d be given the chance to step into his shoes and maybe affect kids the way Hiccup affected me [as a kid]. It’s such an honor.
As for whether he can believe he will be one day portraying one of his favorite animated heroes, Thames remarked that it still feels surreal to him and that he never thought he would be bringing one of his childhood heroes to life one day after having dressed up as Hiccup one Halloween (via Empire Online). His casting as Hiccup is not just a career highlight but rather a full-circle moment for the young actor, and we are here for it!
3. Mason Thames might not have been Hiccup if it weren’t for The Black Phone
Mason Thames’ casting as Hiccup in the live-action How to Train Your Dragon may never have materialized if he hadn’t starred in The Black Phone. Not only did the movie turn out to be his breakout role, but it also helped him bag the career-changing role. It all happened when director Dean DeBlois was en route to a casting session in London for the role of Hiccup.
During the flight, DeBlois happened to watch The Black Phone by chance. He was left totally in awe after watching Thames delivering a gripping performance as Finney Blake. This unexpected viewing sparked a pivotal moment for the director, who began considering Thames for the iconic Viking hero, as it was revealed in Thames’ interview with THR.
This fortuitous encounter on a plane ride eventually altered the trajectory of his career, turning Thames’ childhood dream of playing Hiccup into a reality. Prior to DeBlois’ in-flight discovery, the production had already auditioned numerous actors for Hiccup, yet none seemed to fit the role perfectly. Thames’ raw and authentic performance in The Black Phone caught the director’s attention at once, showcasing the young actor’s ability to convey vulnerability and strength, qualities essential for portraying a character like Hiccup.
2. Mason Thames is also a talented ballet dancer
Mason Thames isn’t just a talented actor; beyond his captivating onscreen presence, he also possesses a lesser-known but equally impressive talent as a trained ballet dancer, showcasing a discipline and artistry that enrich his acting career. The actor began studying ballet at quite a young age, dedicating years to mastering the physically demanding and expressive art form, just like his older sister Brooke Madison, who is also a trained dancer.
After starting to study the art form at the age of four, he went on tour for four years, from 2013 to 2016, with a professional international ballet company where he was their youngest cast member. As a professional ballet dancer, he performed in productions of plays like The Nutcracker before eventually turning to acting. Thames’ experience as a ballet dancer also reflects his commitment to versatility and hard work, qualities that have undoubtedly contributed to his ability to tackle diverse and challenging roles.
As fans anticipate his performance in the live-action How to Train Your Dragon, Thames’ ballet training stands as a testament to his craft and dedication to art, making him a standout talent in the entertainment industry.
1. Mason Thames didn’t get to experience high school!
Born and raised in Dallas, Texas, Mason Thames made his acting debut in 2019 in three episodes of Apple TV+’s drama For All Mankind, before eventually landing his breakout role in The Black Phone. Following his rapid rise to success, the actor was only able to attend high school through his freshman year, shifting to online education after his career took off.
Reflecting on his time filming the teen comedy Incoming, in an interview with TooFab, Thames shared, ‘I didn’t really have like an actual high school experience, so getting to do this movie, this is like the closest, wildest thing I have to it.’ The film, which captures the chaotic and humorous essence of teenage life, offered Thames a glimpse into the high school world he missed due to his acting career and early training as a ballet dancer.
Stating that ‘If high school was as wild as this [Incoming], I’d be terrified,’ the actor also talked about what advice he would give to freshmen. Initially joking that even he wouldn’t listen to his own advice, the actor offered a rather heartfelt suggestion, remarking that it’s best to make friends and stick with them. Despite not having lived the typical high school life, Thames’ advice reflects his understanding of the importance of genuine connections, underscoring how his unconventional path has shaped his worldview.
Catch Mason Thames as Hiccup in How to Train Your Dragon, in theatres on June 13, 2025, in the United States.
This post belongs to FandomWire and first appeared on FandomWire
