Mason Thames Didn’t Copy Jay Baruchel—He Reimagined Hiccup

When Mason Thames was cast as Hiccup in the live-action How to Train Your Dragon, the internet buzzed with comparisons to Jay Baruchel’s iconic voice performance. But Thames didn’t just mimic; he transformed. In a candid interview, he admitted, “I was Hiccup for Halloween,” revealing a deep connection to the character long before landing the role. This wasn’t mere casting; it was destiny.

Director Dean DeBlois, who helmed the original animated trilogy, had been searching for the perfect Hiccup. On a flight to London, he watched The Black Phone and was struck by Thames’s performance. “Why is this kid not auditioning for Hiccup?” DeBlois thought, leading to Thames’s casting . Thames’s portrayal isn’t a shadow of Baruchel’s; it’s a fresh take, capturing Hiccup’s essence while adding his unique flair.

Nick Frost, who plays Gobber, praised Thames’s improvisational skills, noting, “He has funny bones and he’s lovely.” Their on-set chemistry brought a new dimension to their scenes, showcasing Thames’s ability to blend humor and heart .

Even Baruchel, the original voice of Hiccup, offered words of wisdom to the new cast, advising them to “respect the dragon” and enjoy the experience. His blessing underscores the passing of the torch and the acknowledgment of Thames’s authentic portrayal .

As the live-action film premieres, audiences are discovering that Mason Thames hasn’t just filled Hiccup’s shoes—he’s reimagined the character for a new generation. In doing so, he proves that true artistry lies in transformation, not imitation.

Will Thames’s Hiccup inspire a new wave of fans, or will the shadow of Baruchel’s original voice linger? Only time will tell.