The Thorston Twins: 7 Shocking Ways Harry Trevaldwyn And Bronwyn James Will Redefine Tuffnut And Ruffnut In The Live-Action HTTYD

The anticipation surrounding the live-action adaptation of *How to Train Your Dragon* (HTTYD) is reaching a fever pitch, especially as the June 13, 2025, release date draws closer. One of the biggest questions for fans of the beloved animated trilogy has always been: who could possibly capture the chaotic, dim-witted, yet strangely endearing energy of the Thorston twins, Tuffnut and Ruffnut? The answer, as of the most current announcements, lies with two rising English talents, Harry Trevaldwyn and Bronwyn James. The casting choices signal a deliberate, fresh approach to the characters, promising a comedic dynamic that is both familiar and fundamentally new. This article, updated in December 2025, dives deep into the actors' backgrounds, the production details, and the seven key ways they are set to redefine the iconic Viking siblings.

The selection of Trevaldwyn and James is a bold move by director Dean DeBlois, who returns to helm the live-action project. Their combined experience in sharp comedy, period drama, and sketch work suggests the new Tuffnut and Ruffnut will retain their signature absurdity while adding layers of modern comedic timing and unexpected depth. Fans should prepare for the twins' legendary sibling rivalry and dragon-riding antics—this time, brought to life against the stunning, real-world backdrops of Northern Ireland and the Faroe Islands.

Meet the New Thorston Twins: Harry Trevaldwyn and Bronwyn James Biography

The live-action adaptation of *How to Train Your Dragon* is anchored by a stellar cast, including Mason Thames as Hiccup, Nico Parker as Astrid, and the return of Gerard Butler as Stoick the Vast. However, the casting of the Thorston twins—Tuffnut and Ruffnut—was a critical decision that landed on two distinct, yet complementary, performers.

• 5 Shocking Facts About Anna Congdon Penn State Sweetheart To Nfl Fiances Social Media Firestorm Cc90e

Harry Trevaldwyn (Tuffnut Thorston)

• Born: February 14, 1994, in Oxford, England.
• Nationality: British.
• Key Role in HTTYD: Tuffnut Thorston, the male half of the fraternal twin duo, known for his misguided bravado and bizarre philosophical musings.
• Notable Filmography: Trevaldwyn is a celebrated actor, comedian, and writer. His credits include the satirical film *The Bubble* (2022), the UK adaptation of *Call My Agent!*, titled *Ten Percent* (2022), and the comedy-crime series *The Outlaws*. He is particularly noted for his sharp, dry comedic style, which he often showcases in his writing and stand-up work.
• Comedic Background: His background as a comedian and writer suggests he will bring a highly intellectualized, yet utterly ridiculous, take on Tuffnut’s often nonsensical dialogue, moving beyond simple slapstick.

Bronwyn James (Ruffnut Thorston)

• Born: July 24, 1994, in the United Kingdom.
• Nationality: British.
• Key Role in HTTYD: Ruffnut Thorston, Tuffnut's twin sister, characterized by her aggressive personality, love of fighting, and shared ownership of the two-headed Hideous Zippleback, Barf and Belch.
• Notable Filmography: James is a versatile actress with a strong background in both television and film. She is widely known for playing Fanny in the period drama series *Harlots* (2017–2019) and for her roles in *The ABC Murders*, *The Dig* (2021), and the fantasy series *Lockwood & Co.* (2023). She has also been cast in the highly anticipated musical films *Wicked* (2024) and *Wicked: For Good* (2025).
• Versatility: Her experience in period pieces like *Harlots* and fantasy roles in *Lockwood & Co.* demonstrates the ability to anchor a fantastical character in a believable, gritty world—perfect for the Viking aesthetic of Berk.

7 Ways the New Tuffnut and Ruffnut Will Break the Mold

The casting of Trevaldwyn and James is not merely a replication of the animated voices. It is a strategic move to infuse the live-action film with a unique comedic energy. Reviewers who have seen early screenings have noted that the twins are "funny in a different way" from the original, suggesting a significant tonal shift.

1. A Shift to 'Drier' British Comedy

The original Tuffnut (voiced by T.J. Miller) and Ruffnut (voiced by Kristen Wiig) relied heavily on rapid-fire, often absurd American-style improv. Harry Trevaldwyn, with his background in UK comedy and sketch writing (like *Ten Percent*), is expected to bring a drier, more deadpan, and perhaps more intellectually silly flavor to Tuffnut. This shift from loud, abrasive comedy to a more subtle, observational absurdity will distinguish the live-action twins immediately.

2. The 'Wicked' Connection: Bronwyn James's Star Power

Bronwyn James’s simultaneous involvement in the live-action *Wicked* films (as Shenshen) positions her as a major breakout star in 2025. This high-profile status brings significant weight to the Ruffnut role, ensuring she is viewed as a central, vital character, not just a comedic sidekick. Her stage and period drama experience will lend a grounded physicality to Ruffnut’s aggressive, warrior-like persona.

• The Surprise Vegas Wedding And Shared Grief 5 Shocking Details Of John Schneider And Dee Dee Sorvinos Whirlwind Romance Ohirf

3. Real-World Viking Aesthetics

The film was shot primarily in the rugged, authentic landscapes of Northern Ireland and the Faroe Islands. This commitment to realism means Trevaldwyn and James will be portraying Vikings in a much more grounded, less cartoonish environment. Their performances will need to balance the twins' inherent ridiculousness with the harsh reality of life on Berk, adding a layer of physical comedy and grit that the animated version didn't require.

4. A New Spin on Sibling Rivalry

The core of Tuffnut and Ruffnut's dynamic is their constant, petty rivalry—often over the ownership of their dragon, Barf and Belch, or the affection of Snotlout. With two actors known for their sharp, quick-witted performances, the sibling banter is likely to be less about physical fighting and more about verbal sparring and one-upmanship, providing a fresh take on their unique brand of love-hate relationship.

5. The Comedic Ensemble: A Stronger Support Cast

The twins are part of a formidable comedic supporting cast that includes Julian Dennison (*Deadpool 2*, *Hunt for the Wilderpeople*) as Fishlegs and Gabriel Howell as Snotlout. This ensemble of actors, all with strong comedic backgrounds, suggests that the twins' antics will be part of a broader, well-defined comedic landscape, allowing their individual performances to shine through the group chemistry.

• The Chilling True Story 5 Key Facts About Richard Evonitz The Serial Killer Who Kidnapped Kara Robinson Chamberlain Xpjje

6. Focus on Character Nuance Over Voice Gimmicks

In the animated films, the unique voice acting was inseparable from the characters. The live-action version must rely on physical acting, costume design, and facial expressions to convey the twins' personalities. Trevaldwyn and James's experience in varied roles—from James's emotional depth in *Harlots* to Trevaldwyn's observational comedy—indicates a portrayal that focuses on the nuance of the characters' absurd worldviews rather than just their vocal delivery.

7. Dean DeBlois's Vision for Authenticity

Director Dean DeBlois, who wrote and directed all three animated films, has returned for the live-action version, ensuring a deep understanding of the source material. His defense of the overall casting, including the twins, is rooted in a desire to find actors who can embody the spirit of the characters while bringing a grounded, authentic feel to the world of Berk. The choice of Trevaldwyn and James reflects a commitment to casting actors who can handle the big-budget spectacle while delivering genuinely funny, human performances.

The Road to Berk: Production and Release Details

The live-action *How to Train Your Dragon* is one of the most anticipated fantasy films of the 2020s. The production has been meticulous in its approach to translating the animated world into a realistic, live-action environment.

• Director: Dean DeBlois (returning from the original trilogy).
• Release Date: June 13, 2025.
• Filming Locations: Principal photography took place primarily in Northern Ireland, utilizing the Titanic Studios facility in Belfast as a central hub. Additional location shooting was done in the dramatic, windswept landscapes of the Faroe Islands to capture the authentic, isolated feel of the Isle of Berk.
• Key Cast Members:
  • Hiccup: Mason Thames
  • Astrid: Nico Parker
  • Stoick the Vast: Gerard Butler
  • Gobber the Belch: Nick Frost
  • Fishlegs Ingerman: Julian Dennison
  • Snotlout Jorgenson: Gabriel Howell

The combination of a world-class director, a proven and talented ensemble cast, and a commitment to stunning, authentic filming locations suggests that Harry Trevaldwyn and Bronwyn James’s portrayal of Tuffnut and Ruffnut will be a highlight of the 2025 cinematic calendar. Their unique comedic partnership is poised to deliver the chaotic charm fans expect, while introducing a fresh, modern sensibility to the beloved Thorston twins.