Red-carpet launch in Riyadh: Gerard Butler kicks off ‘How to Train Your Dragon’ premiere

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Gerard Butler kicked off his international press tour for “How to Train Your Dragon” with a special red-carpet premiere at Vox Cinemas, Roshn Front in Riyadh. (AN Photo/Saad Al-Dossari)
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Gerard Butler kicked off his international press tour for “How to Train Your Dragon” with a special red-carpet premiere at Vox Cinemas, Roshn Front in Riyadh. (AN Photo/Saad Al-Dossari)
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Gerard Butler kicked off his international press tour for “How to Train Your Dragon” with a special red-carpet premiere at Vox Cinemas, Roshn Front in Riyadh. (AN Photo/Saad Al-Dossari)
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Gerard Butler kicked off his international press tour for “How to Train Your Dragon” with a special red-carpet premiere at Vox Cinemas, Roshn Front in Riyadh. (AN Photo/Saad Al-Dossari)
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Gerard Butler kicked off his international press tour for “How to Train Your Dragon” with a special red-carpet premiere at Vox Cinemas, Roshn Front in Riyadh. (AN Photo/Saad Al-Dossari)
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Updated 16 May 2025
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Red-carpet launch in Riyadh: Gerard Butler kicks off ‘How to Train Your Dragon’ premiere

  • Reprising his role as Stoick the Vast, Butler’s visit marked a major moment for Saudi Arabia’s growing entertainment scene

RIYADH: Gerard Butler kicked off his international press tour for “How to Train Your Dragon” with a special red-carpet premiere at Vox Cinemas, Roshn Front in Riyadh. 

Reprising his role as Stoick the Vast, Butler’s visit marked a major moment for Saudi Arabia’s growing entertainment scene.

Fans filled the venue, eager to catch a glimpse of the Hollywood star. Butler took his time meeting attendees, posing for photos, and signing autographs, a gesture that was met with huge enthusiasm, especially from young fans.

In a press chat, Butler spoke about the significance of launching the film in Saudi Arabia, praising the Kingdom’s rising profile in the global entertainment industry. 

“It’s an honor to be here,” he said. “The energy of the crowd has been incredible, and I’m excited to share this story with everyone.”

He also recorded an exclusive interview with Arab News, set to be published soon.

“How to Train Your Dragon,” directed by three-time Oscar nominee Dean DeBlois, is a live-action remake of the beloved DreamWorks franchise. The film, releasing on June 12, follows the bond between Hiccup and Toothless, with Butler’s character playing a key role. The cast includes Julian Dennison, Gabriel Howell, and Bronwyn James.

The evening not only celebrated the film but also reflected Saudi Arabia’s efforts to position itself as a key player in the global film industry.


Georgina Rodriguez closes out the year with family time, public appearances

Updated 30 December 2025
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Georgina Rodriguez closes out the year with family time, public appearances

  • Partner of Ronaldo shares photos of Christmas, holidays
  • Speculation they will celebrate New Year’s Day in the UAE

DUBAI: Argentine model Georgina Rodriguez has been marking the end of the year with family in the region, sharing moments from public appearances alongside her longtime partner, Cristiano Ronaldo, as well as quieter holiday time together.

One of those appearances included her attendance at the Globe Soccer Dubai Awards 2025, where she showed her support for Ronaldo alongside his eldest son, Cristiano Ronaldo Jr.

The footballer was awarded Best Middle East Player 2025, marking his third consecutive win in the category.

For the ceremony, Rodriguez opted for a sleek, body-skimming black evening gown featuring a high neckline and long fitted sleeves, detailed with subtle, evenly spaced embellishments.

She wore her hair long and straight, pairing the look with soft, glowing makeup. The ensemble was completed with statement diamond jewelry, including stud earrings, a sparkling watch and her large oval-cut engagement ring.

Now in its 16th edition, the Globe Soccer Awards ceremony was held at Atlantis The Royal. Ronaldo received the award from Sheikh Mansoor bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al-Maktoum, chairman of the Dubai Sports Council.

After accepting the trophy, Ronaldo said he was focused on continuing his career and adding to his achievements.

“I want to carry on going. You know what my goal is. I want to win more trophies and I want to reach the number that you all know,” he said. “I will reach that number for sure, if there are no injuries, inshaAllah.”

Currently on 956 career goals following a recent brace against Al-Akhdoud, Ronaldo is now 44 goals away from reaching the 1,000-goal milestone.

Ahead of the event in the UAE, fan spotted Rodriguez with Ronaldo in a casual moment walking at Atlantis. She wore jeans paired with a black top, leather jacket, beige hat and black heels.

The model also shared a short video offering a glimpse into how she celebrated Christmas, showing an intimate, family-focused gathering at home.

The family — including Ronaldo, Rodriguez, Ronaldo Jr., Eva Maria, Mateo, Alana Martina and Bella Esmeralda — wore matching pajamas and were seen dancing together toward the Christmas tree in the clip.

Fans are still waiting to see where the family will celebrate New Year’s Eve, after spending the occasion in Dubai last year. This has led to speculation that they may remain in the city for the celebrations.