Gerard Butler Belfast: How to Train Your Dragon Star’s Connection
Gerard Butler is championing Northern Ireland as the primary location for the “How to Train Your Dragon” sequel. Sharing his affection for Belfast, Butler, who felt like an “adopted son” during filming, praised the crew and the welcoming atmosphere of the city. He highlighted the strong connection he forged with the local community,drawing parallels between Belfast and his hometown of Glasgow. The upcoming live-action remake, anticipated to hit theaters on June 9, has already cemented a special place in Butler’s heart, making his preference for Northern Ireland a natural fit. For more insights on this and other stories, turn to News Directory 3. Discover what’s next for the franchise.
Gerard Butler: ‘How to Train Your Dragon’ Sequel Must Film in Northern Ireland
Updated June 6, 2025
Gerard Butler, star of the upcoming live-action remake of ‘How to Train Your Dragon’, says he hopes the sequel will film in Northern Ireland. The movie, filmed in early 2024 across several locations, has Butler feeling like Belfast’s “adopted son.”
Universal Pictures confirmed a sequel to the Dean DeBlois-directed story ahead of the film’s June 9 release. Butler told BBC News NI he couldn’t imagine filming it anywhere else.
Butler plays Viking leader Stoick in the film,which tells of conflict between dragons and Vikings on the fictional Isle of Berk. Real-world locations in Northern Ireland, including Belfast, Dunseverick Castle, and Tollymore Forest, stand in for Berk.
Reflecting on his time in Belfast, Gerard Butler described the locals as “his people.” He noted the similarities between Glasgow and Belfast, adding that he felt embraced by the community. ”Everybody just kind of adopts you, it was great, I loved being there,” Butler said.
What’s next
The live-action remake of ‘How to Train Your Dragon’ is set to hit cinemas on June 9, with anticipation building for a sequel perhaps filmed onc again in Northern Ireland.