BERK (via Universal Pictures) – The dragons are taking flight once again. Principal photography has officially commenced on the live-action sequel to DreamWorks’ How to Train Your Dragon, with director Dean DeBlois confirming the start of production today, January 27, 2026.
The news comes on the heels of the massive success of the first live-action adaptation, which soared to $636 million at the global box office in 2025. DeBlois, who has been the creative architect of the franchise since the original 2010 animation, shared a behind-the-scenes photo from the set featuring a production clapperboard and a brand-new red-themed logo for the sequel.
”Back in the saddle!” DeBlois posted on social media. “Day 1 of principal photography on HTTYD2! The adventure begins…”
Returning Cast and New Legends
The sequel will see the return of the core “Viking” ensemble, while also bringing in heavy-hitting talent to play iconic roles from the 2014 animated source material.
- Mason Thames returns as Hiccup Horrendous Haddock III.
- Nico Parker reprises her role as the fierce Astrid Hofferson.
- Gerard Butler and Nick Frost return as Stoick the Vast and Gobber the Belch, respectively.
- Cate Blanchett, in a move that has thrilled longtime fans, will officially play the live-action Valka (Hiccup’s long-lost mother), a character she originally voiced in the animated films.
- Ólafur Darri Ólafsson has been cast as the formidable antagonist Drago Bludvist.
Production Details
Following the precedent set by the first film, the production is utilizing state-of-the-art IMAX technology and sophisticated physical puppets to allow the actors to interact more naturally with their dragon counterparts before CGI enhancement.
The story is expected to follow the plot of the second animated film, jumping forward five years as Hiccup and Toothless discover a secret ice cave that is home to hundreds of new wild dragons and the mysterious Dragon Rider.
With the first film currently preparing for its streaming debut on Netflix in February 2026, the momentum for the franchise is at an all-time high. Fans can expect a more mature, high-stakes narrative as the production explores the deeper mythology of the dragon world.
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