Dean DeBlois on How to Train Your Dragon Sequels — Will They Follow the Books? And Could America or Jay Return?
Fans of How to Train Your Dragon are soaring with excitement as the beloved franchise returns in a bold new way with its upcoming live-action adaptation. In our exclusive interviews, we sat down with director Dean DeBloisand the talented cast — Gerard Butler, Nick Frost, Julian Dennison, Gabriel Howell, Bronwyn James, and Harry Trevaldwyn — to talk dragons, destiny, and the future of Berk.
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Dean DeBlois on the Future of the Franchise
As Dean DeBlois returns as the director and writer of the live-action reboot, we couldn’t resist asking whether future films would follow the original books or stick to the animated trilogy’s format, and whether there could be more than three installments. DeBlois revealed that while he doesn’t “plan anymore,” he remains deeply connected to the world of Berk:
“I find myself joking that I’ll still be making these movies at 85,” DeBlois laughed.
“There’s certainly room to expand and to delve deeper… to build upon what works.”
He also teased that he’s actively writing the next film and is open to course-correcting where needed:
“Anywhere where we could go a little deeper into the characters or fix regrets I’ve lived with — I’m open to that.”
Could America Ferrera & Jay Baruchel Return?
Original Hiccup and Astrid stars Jay Baruchel and America Ferrera might not be in the new cast, but they’re still very much involved — at least spiritually.
“I showed my favorite Astrids and Hiccups to both Jay and America,” DeBlois shared.
“They were very supportive and gave great feedback.”
And while he’s tried to recruit them again:
“I almost had America interested, but then she got so busy with the Barbie awards campaign. Jay… he likes to stay in Canada. But maybe one day!”
It’s clear that the How to Train Your Dragon live-action reboot has the potential to go in exciting new directions—while still honoring everything fans know and love. With a passionate creative team behind it and a cast that clearly cares deeply about the story, there’s real potential to make something special—maybe even better than what came before. The cast’s heartfelt responses to questions about the pressure of joining such a beloved franchise show just how much this film means to them.
Be sure to check out the full interview where we dive deeper into the world of Berk, and don’t miss our fun rapid-fire games—including how the cast would name their dragons, what modern-day hobbies their characters might have, and who they’d trade roles with if given the chance!
