The Hilarious Duo: 5 Must-Know Facts About Ruffnut And Tuffnut’s Live-Action Casting

The live-action adaptation of *How to Train Your Dragon* is one of the most anticipated movie events of 2025, promising to bring the beloved animated world of Berk and its Viking inhabitants into stunning, real-world detail. As of December 15, 2025, the production has moved well past the initial casting announcements, with filming having taken place in breathtaking locations across Europe, and the film now has a firm release date. While much attention has been paid to the leads, Hiccup and Astrid, fans are arguably most curious about the chaotic, dragon-riding Thorston twins, Ruffnut and Tuffnut, and the two rising stars chosen to embody their signature, bickering energy.

The crucial task of bringing the mischievous twins to life falls to two accomplished English actors: Bronwyn James as Ruffnut and Harry Trevaldwyn as Tuffnut. Director Dean DeBlois, who helmed the original animated trilogy, made a clear choice to cast actors who could capture the unique comedic timing and sibling rivalry that defined the characters, ensuring the live-action version retains the heart and humor of the original tale. The selection of these two performers, both with a strong background in comedy and dramatic roles, suggests a fresh, yet faithful, interpretation of the fan-favorite duo.

The Thorston Twins’ New Faces: Bronwyn James and Harry Trevaldwyn

The casting of the Thorston twins, Ruffnut and Tuffnut, was a pivotal moment for the *How to Train Your Dragon* live-action movie. The actors chosen are both critically acclaimed for their work in British television and film, bringing a wealth of experience in nuanced comedy and period drama that will be essential for the Viking setting.

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Bronwyn James as Ruffnut Thorston: Biography and Key Roles

• Full Name: Bronwyn James
• Nationality: English
• Born: July 24, 1994
• Role in HTTYD Live-Action: Ruffnut Thorston, the twin sister and one half of the bickering duo.
• Notable Works: James is perhaps best known for her role as Fanny Lambert in the period drama series Harlots (2017–2019). She also appeared in popular series like The End of the F***ing World and Outlander. In a testament to her versatility, she is also cast as Shenshen in the highly anticipated two-part musical film adaptation of Wicked (2024 and 2025).

Harry Trevaldwyn as Tuffnut Thorston: Biography and Key Roles

• Full Name: Harry David Trevaldwyn
• Nationality: English
• Born: February 14, 1994
• Role in HTTYD Live-Action: Tuffnut Thorston, the twin brother and co-conspirator in all things ridiculous.
• Notable Works: Trevaldwyn has made a name for himself as an accomplished actor, comedian, and writer. He is well-known for his roles in the Netflix comedy film The Bubble, the British comedy series Ten Percent, and the crime series The Outlaws. His background in comedy, combined with his recognition as a Screen International Star of Tomorrow, makes him an exciting choice to capture Tuffnut's unique brand of clueless bravado.

The Casting Chemistry That Sealed The Deal

The original animated Ruffnut and Tuffnut, voiced by Kristen Wiig and T.J. Miller, were defined by their constant, yet strangely affectionate, fighting and their shared penchant for chaos. Translating this dynamic to a live-action setting required a casting choice based less on physical resemblance to the animated characters and more on raw, palpable chemistry.

Director Dean DeBlois, who is returning to write, direct, and produce the live-action film, reportedly prioritized the on-screen relationship between the actors. The decision to cast Bronwyn James and Harry Trevaldwyn, both born in 1994, suggests a deliberate choice to pair actors with similar comedic sensibilities and a natural rapport. Sources close to the production indicated that the duo secured their roles due to their "excellent chemistry" during the audition process, a factor that was deemed critical to authentically portray the iconic sibling rivalry and synchronized stupidity of the Thorston twins.

This focus on genuine connection over simple look-alikes is a key indicator of the live-action's approach. The success of the Ruffnut and Tuffnut characters hinges on their ability to bounce off one another, delivering rapid-fire insults and ill-conceived plans. James's background in sharp-witted period dramas like *Harlots* and Trevaldwyn's work as a stand-up comedian and writer provide a perfect blend of dramatic timing and improvisational humor needed for the roles. Their performance is expected to be a scene-stealing element, much like the original animated characters.

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Live-Action Production: Filming Locations and Release Date

The live-action *How to Train Your Dragon* is not just a faithful retelling; it is an ambitious cinematic project that aims to ground the fantasy world of the Isle of Berk in stunning, real-world landscapes. This commitment to realism extends far beyond the casting of the Thorston twins and their fellow Viking teens.

A Real-World Berk: Filming Across Europe

The production team, under the guidance of Dean DeBlois, chose to film in several visually spectacular locations to capture the rugged, mythical beauty of the Viking world. The principal photography was primarily conducted in Northern Ireland, utilizing its dramatic coastlines and lush, ancient forests. Key filming locations in Northern Ireland include:

• Tollymore Forest Park: Known for its dramatic Gothic architecture and dense woodland, this location likely serves as the backdrop for many of the forest scenes and dragon encounters.
• Giant's Causeway: The iconic, hexagonal basalt columns provide a unique, otherworldly landscape that perfectly suits the dramatic setting of Berk.
• Dunseverick Castle and Murlough Bay: These coastal areas lend themselves to the wind-swept, dramatic feel of the Viking village and the dragon-filled skies.

In addition to Northern Ireland, the filmmakers captured breathtaking scenes in Iceland and the Faroe Islands. These locations, known for their volcanic terrain, dramatic fjords, and remote, rugged beauty, will provide the necessary scale and visual depth to bring the world of dragons and Vikings to life, giving the live-action adaptation a unique, epic feel.

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The Final Countdown: Release Date and Core Cast

The live-action *How to Train Your Dragon* film is currently scheduled for release on June 13, 2025. The production faced a delay from its original March 2024 date due to industry strikes, but the new summer 2025 date positions it as a major blockbuster event.

The film is a direct remake of the 2010 animated original, following the story of the clumsy young Viking Hiccup (Mason Thames) who befriends the rare Night Fury dragon, Toothless, challenging his village's ancient war against the creatures. The core cast members joining Bronwyn James and Harry Trevaldwyn's Thorston twins include:

• Mason Thames as Hiccup Horrendous Haddock III
• Nico Parker as Astrid Hofferson
• Gerard Butler reprising his role as Stoick the Vast (the only voice actor from the original to return)
• Julian Dennison as Fishlegs Ingerman
• Gabriel Howell as Snotlout Jorgenson
• Nick Frost as Gobber the Belch

With a cast full of fresh talent and a returning director committed to his original vision, the live-action *How to Train Your Dragon* promises to be a spectacular and humorous cinematic event. The dynamic between Ruffnut and Tuffnut, anchored by the comedic pairing of Bronwyn James and Harry Trevaldwyn, will undoubtedly be a highlight, ensuring the Thorston twins remain the most hilariously chaotic part of the Isle of Berk's new era.