Mason Thames returns as Hiccup in Universal's "How to Train Your Dragon 2" sequel

Mason Thames will reprise his role as Hiccup in a live-action sequel to "How to Train Your Dragon 2," set to release next year. Universal Pictures made the announcement during CinemaCon 2025, showcasing their commitment to the franchise. This follows the success of the first live-action adaptation of "How to Train Your Dragon," which debuted in June 2024 and received positive reviews from both critics and audiences.

The decision to greenlight a sequel so quickly highlights Universal's confidence in the franchise's potential to attract viewers. The original animated trilogy, released between 2010 and 2019, garnered critical acclaim and a dedicated fan base. It earned over $1.6 billion worldwide, making it one of the highest-grossing animated franchises in history. The live-action adaptation, which aimed to bring the beloved characters and story to a new generation, laid the groundwork for further installments in the series.

As Universal prepares for the release of "How to Train Your Dragon 2," anticipation is building among fans and industry insiders. The first film's success indicated a strong market for family-friendly content, especially in a landscape dominated by superhero films. The return of characters like Hiccup and Toothless in a live-action format is expected to draw in both long-time fans and newcomers alike.

Looking ahead, Universal is likely to invest heavily in marketing and promotional campaigns to ensure the sequel's success. The studio's bold move to greenlight a second film so soon after the first indicates a strategic effort to capitalize on the franchise's momentum. If successful, the live-action series could expand further, possibly leading to spin-offs or additional sequels, solidifying its place in the realm of family entertainment.