Gerard Butler has paid tribute to his late mother, Margaret Coll, by dedicating a new film to her memory. You can sometimes spot this tribute in the credits of the animated film “How to Train Your Dragon.” His mother, who died in February at 81, had a profound effect on Butler’s life. She knew from a young age that he wanted to become an actor and encouraged his ambitions.
In a touching gesture, Butler’s mother is honored with a note in the film that reads, “Dedicated to the loving memory of Margaret Coll.” This steadfast devotion is a reflection of their deep-rooted connection and her profound encouragement of his aspirations.
Writer-director Dean DeBlois chose to devote the film—in a surprise to Butler himself—to Margaret Coll. He was deeply affected by her sudden passing. He wanted to protect the actor in the fallout ensuing after such a major life event.
“I knew that the loss of his mother was a deeply felt wound and that he was having a tough time recovering from it,” – Dean DeBlois.
Butler expressed his gratitude for DeBlois’s thoughtful gesture, highlighting the importance of his mother’s influence on his life and work. He remarked, “So to honor her with a dedication in the credits just seemed like the right thing to do in that moment.”
Margaret Coll not only influenced Butler’s professional path, but became a long-time pillar of support for him. He recalled a poignant letter she wrote him, stating, “She wrote me the most beautiful letter, and she said, ‘Look son, end of the day, I want you to be happy, and I love you no matter what. And if this is what you want to do —’”
Reflecting on his mother’s impact on the character Stoick’s mother in the film, Butler noted, “If Stoick had a mum, that would have been my mum.” His personal life is inextricably tied to the animated realm. This link beautifully demonstrates the deep impact Margaret Coll had on him and his art.
Butler expressed mixed emotions regarding his mother’s inability to see the film, saying, “I was so excited for her to see it, but I had a feeling she wasn’t going to make it.” Still, he was comforted to find in DeBlois’s commitment a meaningful tribute to her legacy.
“It’s this movie — it really is,” – Gerard Butler.
