Who is Mason Thames? All About ‘How to Train Your Dragon’ Actor

Mason Thames is rapidly becoming one of Hollywood’s most talked-about young actors, thanks to his standout performances in popular films and TV series. With his raw talent and captivating screen presence, Thames has already carved out a promising career, and he’s only just getting started. From his breakthrough role in The Black Phone to starring in the live-action adaptation of How to Train Your Dragon, Thames’ journey into the spotlight is a fascinating one.

Who is Mason Thames?

Born on July 10, 2007, in Phoenix, Arizona, Mason Thames’ rise to fame has been nothing short of impressive. Now 17 years old, Thames is known for his portrayal of Finney in the horror-thriller The Black Phone (2022), a performance that garnered widespread praise and catapulted him into the limelight. However, acting wasn’t his first passion. The talented teen started his career in ballet at the age of five, quickly becoming a skilled dancer before making the leap to acting at age 11.

How Did Mason Thames Get His Start?

Mason Thames and Madeleine McGraw in The Black Phone.
Source: The Black Phone,

Thames’ journey into the acting world began in 2017 with his debut role in the short film After Omelas, where he played the character Liam. From there, his career blossomed. He appeared in the Apple TV+ series For All Mankind (2019) and in the 2020 series Evel, based on the life of stuntman Evel Knievel. But it was his role as Finney in The Black Phone that truly marked him as a star to watch. In the horror film directed by Scott Derrickson, Thames held his own against seasoned actors like Ethan Hawke, making a lasting impression with his nuanced portrayal of a kidnapped teen trying to escape his captor.

Mason Thames’ Big Break: The Black Phone

Mason’s career took a huge leap forward when he was cast in The Black Phone (2021), a psychological horror film directed by Scott Derrickson. Thames played Finney, a young boy who must navigate a terrifying series of events after being kidnapped by a sadistic killer. The film, which also stars Ethan Hawke, was a critical and commercial success, and Thames’ performance received widespread praise for his ability to hold his own alongside the seasoned actors in the cast.

In an exclusive interview, Thames spoke about his audition for the film, recalling the awkwardness of his first Zoom call during the pandemic. Despite the technical difficulties, Thames’ raw talent shone through, and he was eventually called back for a second round of auditions. His natural charisma and ability to convey emotion made him the perfect fit for the role of Finney, a character who navigates trauma, fear, and resilience.

Mason Thames Takes on Iconic Role of Hiccup, How to Train Your Dragon

Mason Thames in ‘How To Train Your Dragon’
Source: Universal Studios

After The Black Phone, Thames continued to build his career with standout roles in various projects. However, it’s his portrayal of Hiccup Horrendous Haddock III in the live-action remake of How to Train Your Dragon that has everyone talking. The highly anticipated film is set to release in 2025, and Thames’ role as the young Viking who befriends a dragon has already earned glowing reviews.

Nick Frost, who plays Gobber in the live-action adaptation, praised Thames for his professionalism and quick adaptation on set, despite the challenges of performing alongside CGI dragons. Frost called Thames “amazing,” noting how easily the young actor immersed himself into the role, especially in scenes where Hiccup is alone with his dragon, Toothless.

The film, directed by Dean DeBlois, is expected to capture the same magic as the original animated classic while adding a fresh perspective with its live-action portrayal. Thames has expressed how grateful he is for the opportunity, and his excitement is palpable. “I think about it every day,” Thames said in an interview. “Getting to play Hiccup, one of my childhood heroes, is a dream come true.”

Who Are Mason Thames’ Parents?

Mason Thames hails from a supportive family that values his growth both on and off-screen. His father, Chad Thames, has been a pillar in Mason’s life, offering encouragement as his son pursued his acting dreams. While details about his mother remain largely private, Mason has a close relationship with his sister, Brooke Madison, who is a dancer herself. Raised in a household where creativity was encouraged, it’s no wonder Thames chose a career in the performing arts.

What Are Fans Saying About Mason Thames?

Mason Thames.
Source: Dreamworks

Fans of Mason Thames are quick to praise his maturity and dedication to his craft. His breakout role in The Black Phone demonstrated his ability to portray vulnerability and strength, and as he continues to gain recognition, his fanbase is steadily growing. Thames’ portrayal of Hiccup in How to Train Your Dragon is already being met with excitement, with early reviews noting his remarkable adaptability to such a complex role, particularly given the heavy reliance on CGI and animation in his scenes.

What’s Next for Mason Thames?

As Thames prepares for the release of How to Train Your Dragon, his career continues to soar. In 2024, he starred in Monster Summer, an indie film alongside Mel Gibson, and appeared in the high school comedy Incoming. With his dynamic range and versatility, Thames is quickly establishing himself as a force to be reckoned with in Hollywood.

In addition to his film roles, Thames remains a humble figure, choosing to stay focused on his craft while maintaining a low-key personal life. His social media presence is minimal, and he continues to prioritize his education, attending school online to balance his acting career and personal life.

FAQs

What is Mason Thames’ age? Mason Thames was born on July 10, 2007, making him 17 years old as of April 2025.

How tall is Mason Thames? Mason stands at 5 feet 7 inches (170 cm) tall and weighs around 146 pounds (66 kg).

Where is Mason Thames from? He was born in Phoenix, Arizona, and currently resides in Los Angeles, California.

What role made Mason Thames famous? Mason Thames became widely known for his role as Finney in The Black Phone (2021), a film that showcased his acting talents alongside Ethan Hawke.

What is Mason Thames working on next? In 2025, Thames will star as Hiccup in the live-action remake of How to Train Your Dragon, which is set to be a major release. He has also appeared in Monster Summer (2024) and Incoming (2024).

Does Mason Thames have a girlfriend? Mason Thames has kept his personal life private, although there have been rumors about his relationships with co-stars Madeleine McGraw and Isabella Ferreira. As of now, Thames is reportedly single.