Two-time Academy Award winner Cate Blanchett is set to reprise her beloved role as Valka in the upcoming live-action adaptation of How to Train Your Dragon 2, Universal Pictures and DreamWorks Animation have confirmed. The sequel — a continuation of the live-action How to Train Your Dragon universe — is scheduled to soar into theaters on June 11, 2027.
Blanchett, who originally voiced Valka in the animated franchise, will embody the character on screen in the sequel, reuniting with filmmaker Dean DeBlois, who returns as writer, director and executive producer. DeBlois is the creative force behind the Dragon saga, having directed both the original animated trilogy and the 2025 live-action remake.
From Voice to Live Action: Blanchett’s Return to Berk
Valka first appeared in How to Train Your Dragon 2 (2014) as Hiccup’s long-lost mother, a fearless dragon rescuer who defied her village’s expectations and chose to live among dragons. In the animated sequel, she plays a pivotal role in uniting humans and dragons against a formidable threat to their world.
Originally introduced amidst the lush fantasy landscapes of the animated series, Valka is poised to return in live action alongside other familiar faces such as Gerard Butler as Stoick the Vast. Butler, who also transitioned from voice work to live-action performance in the first remake, joins Blanchett as part of the core returning cast.
The expanding ensemble for How to Train Your Dragon 2 also includes Mason Thames as Hiccup, Nico Parker, Julian Dennison, Gabriel Howell, Bronwyn James and Harry Trevaldwyn, all set to reprise or expand their roles from the 2025 live-action debut.
Creative Continuity and Franchise Momentum
DeBlois’s involvement ensures continuity with both the animated films and the first live-action adaptation. The 2025 How to Train Your Dragon remake was well received at the global box office, grossing over $636 million worldwide, proving that the franchise’s blend of heartfelt storytelling and high-flying fantasy continues to resonate with audiences.
Blanchett’s on-camera return as Valka underscores the project’s ambition to faithfully expand the mythology that first captivated audiences more than a decade ago. It also marks a rare instance in which an original voice cast member transitions directly into live action for a major fantasy property — a casting choice that underscores the character’s importance to the story and to long-time fans.
Anticipation Builds for 2027 Release
Universal has locked in June 11, 2027 for the How to Train Your Dragon 2 live-action sequel’s theatrical release, strategically positioning it as a major summer family-adventure tentpole. The date places the film in a highly competitive window, where audiences are expected to embrace the return to the dragon-filled world of Berk.
As production ramps up, anticipation continues to build around how Blanchett’s Valka and Hiccup’s journey will evolve. With a mix of familiar characters, franchise legacy and live-action spectacle, How to Train Your Dragon 2 is shaping up to be one of the most eagerly awaited films of 2027.
Enjoyed This Story? Subscribe to EntertainLens for more entertainment insights.
