Introduction

Production on the live-action film How to Train Your Dragon 2 has suffered a serious incident after a crew member lost several fingers in an on-set accident. The event has raised concerns about working conditions and staff safety.

Incident description

The unfortunate incident took place in April 2026 at Sky Studios Elstree. An anonymous special effects technician was involved in an accident with a saw, resulting in the loss of several fingers from one hand. Despite extensive surgery, the severed fingers could not be saved. The exact circumstances of the accident have not been made public, but the incident has sparked questions about workplace safety.

Union concerns

Bectu, the union representing British crew members, has voiced concern over long working hours for staff. There are worries that employees are often working without the necessary rest periods, which could increase safety risks. This incident raises questions about whether such practices should be reviewed in the interest of worker safety.

Production response

Universal has not yet commented on the incident. So far, there are no signs that production on the film will be seriously disrupted by the event. That matters for the film’s schedule, with the release currently set for June 11, 2027.

Future outlook

The live-action How to Train Your Dragon 2 is a sequel to the original animated film released in 2014. Franchise director Dean DeBlois returns as writer and director, with the original cast also set to appear again. That includes Mason Thames as Hiccup, Nico Parker as Astrid, Gerard Butler as Stoick, Nick Frost as Gobber, and Cate Blanchett as Valka. The franchise has become a major part of modern cinema, and expectations are high for the sequel, especially after the success of the first remake.

With this incident in mind, safety on set will need to remain a top priority.