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Director Dean DeBlois Explains
The highly anticipated live-action remake of How to Train Your Dragon (2025) has finally hit theaters, bringing with it both nostalgia and a fresh take on the beloved animated franchise. However, fans have noticed the absence of one familiar voice: David Tennant, who voiced the Viking warrior Spitelout in the original animated trilogy, does not appear in the live-action adaptation. Director Dean DeBlois has now revealed the reason behind this surprising casting decision.
David Tennant’s Original Role as Spitelout
David Tennant, known for his standout performances in Doctor Who and Good Omens, was a key voice actor in the original How to Train Your Dragon series. He portrayed Spitelout, the strong and burly father of Snotlout, a fellow dragon rider in the Hairy Hooligan Tribe. Despite being a secondary character, Spitelout’s tough Viking persona and Tennant’s distinctive voice left a lasting impression on fans.
Given Tennant’s popularity and his involvement in the animated films, many expected him to reprise his role in the 2025 live-action version. Instead, the role of Spitelout was recast and is now played by actor Peter Serafinowicz.
Director Dean DeBlois Opens Up About Casting
In a recent interview with The Hollywood Reporter, director Dean DeBlois explained the reasoning behind the casting change. According to DeBlois, the decision was not based on Tennant’s talent—which he highly praised—but rather on physical casting needs for the live-action format.
“David Tennant is such a talented actor, and I felt embarrassed that we didn’t have a big enough role for him in the animated films,” DeBlois said. “But the character that he played, Spitelout, who is Snotlout’s father, is just such a big, brawny, large person that I didn’t think David would physically be the right match for him.”
The director emphasized that while voice casting allows for more creative flexibility, live-action adaptations require actors who can visually represent the characters. This ultimately led to the casting of Peter Serafinowicz, whose physical stature aligns more closely with the imposing figure of Spitelout.
Tennant’s Potential Return to the Franchise
While fans may be disappointed that Tennant does not appear in the 2025 remake, DeBlois made it clear that the door isn’t closed for a future return. He expressed interest in finding the “perfect role” for Tennant in potential sequels or spin-offs.
“Maybe in the future we’ll find the perfect role for him, but he’s such an ingenious actor,” DeBlois added.
This opens up exciting possibilities. With the live-action sequel already confirmed and scheduled for a June 2027 release, there’s a chance that a new character could be crafted specifically for Tennant—or perhaps an unexpected cameo might delight long-time fans.
Gerard Butler’s Return as Stoick Was Nearly Missed
Interestingly, David Tennant wasn’t the only former cast member whose involvement was uncertain. Gerard Butler, who voiced Stoick the Vast, Hiccup’s father, is the only original cast member to return in the live-action remake. However, even his participation was nearly derailed due to scheduling conflicts.
Butler was reportedly not available when casting began, as he was booked with multiple back-to-back projects. It wasn’t until the 2023 actors’ strike shifted some production timelines that a window opened up, allowing Butler to rejoin the franchise. According to DeBlois, this fortunate twist of fate was essential to maintaining a strong emotional connection with fans of the original trilogy.
Bringing Back the Old Team for Nostalgia
In addition to Butler’s return, composer John Powell—who scored the original How to Train Your Dragon films—was brought back for the remake. DeBlois shared that Powell was the first person he called to ensure the movie retained its emotional depth and musical identity.
“We wanted to give a nostalgic hug to existing audiences and open it up for a whole new generation,” said DeBlois.
This conscious effort to bring back key members of the original creative team shows that the live-action adaptation isn’t just a reboot but a love letter to longtime fans of the franchise.
Looking Ahead: The Live-Action Sequel and Valka’s Casting
With the success of the 2025 live-action film, attention is now turning to the confirmed sequel. One of the biggest casting questions surrounds the character of Valka, Hiccup’s mother, who was originally voiced by Cate Blanchett in the animated films. DeBlois has expressed his hope that Blanchett will reprise her role in live-action, making her the second original voice actor to return if the deal goes through.
Blanchett, a two-time Oscar winner, would bring significant star power to the sequel. Her participation would further reinforce the franchise’s blend of continuity and reinvention.
Could David Tennant Still Join the Sequel?
While David Tennant didn’t fit the physical mold for Spitelout, there are numerous roles in the How to Train Your Dragon universe that could suit him. Given his immense range, sharp wit, and recognizable presence, Tennant could play a wise elder, a quirky new Viking, or even a dragon whisperer.
However, his involvement may depend on scheduling. Tennant is currently tied up with other projects, including Rivalsseason 2 and Good Omens. But with the sequel expected to begin filming as early as late 2025 or 2026, the window may align perfectly for his inclusion.
Final Thoughts
David Tennant’s absence from the 2025 How to Train Your Dragon live-action film comes down to casting logistics rather than lack of appreciation for his talent. Director Dean DeBlois remains hopeful that the right opportunity will arise for the actor in the future. With a sequel on the horizon and more stories left to tell in the Viking-dragon world, there’s still a chance Tennant could fly back into the franchise in a brand-new role.
For fans of the original films and those new to the story, How to Train Your Dragon (2025) serves as both a nostalgic return and an exciting new beginning. And if things align just right, we might yet see David Tennant in the skies of Berk again.
