Mason Thames isn’t just another rising star—he’s a force to be reckoned with, and nothing, not even the darkest horror role, can intimidate him away from a great part. At just 18, this actor has already carved out a space in Hollywood that’s as diverse as it is impressive. But here’s where it gets controversial: while most young actors stick to a single genre, Mason is determined to conquer them all. Is this ambition genius or a recipe for burnout? Let’s dive in.
First thrust into the spotlight by his gripping performance in the 2021 horror hit The Black Phone alongside Ethan Hawke, Mason is now reprising his role in the highly anticipated sequel, Black Phone 2. But this isn’t just another gig for him. ‘Finney is such a special character to me,’ Mason tells The Hollywood Reporter, reflecting on how both he and his character have grown since the first film. ‘Seeing his journey after such a traumatic event—how he picks up the pieces and tries to rebuild—it’s truly fantastic.’ And this is the part most people miss: Mason’s ability to embody Finney’s emotional depth at such a young age is what makes his performance so compelling.
But horror is just one string on Mason’s bow. He’s equally at home in projects that couldn’t be further from the genre. Take the big-screen adaptation of Colleen Hoover’s Regretting You, the punk-rock comedy New Year’s Rev inspired by Green Day’s early days, or the live-action remake of How to Train Your Dragon—a film Mason describes as ‘the most special thing I’ve ever done.’ His versatility is staggering, but it raises the question: Can an actor truly excel in every genre, or is specialization the key to greatness?
When asked about his preparation for Black Phone 2, Mason reveals a nuanced approach to his character’s PTSD. ‘Finney’s trying not to deal with it,’ he explains. ‘He’s a 17-year-old kid who’s haunted by The Grabber, and the sequel forces him to confront that trauma head-on.’ This exploration of psychological scars is bold for a horror sequel, and it’s a testament to Mason’s commitment to his craft. But here’s the kicker: Does diving this deep into dark roles take a toll on a young actor’s mental health? Mason’s candidness about the challenges of the role invites a much-needed conversation.
Switching gears, Mason’s excitement for How to Train Your Dragon is infectious. ‘I could talk about it all day, every day for the rest of my life,’ he gushes. His passion for the franchise is undeniable, but it’s his portrayal of Hiccup’s vulnerability-turned-strength that resonates most deeply. ‘It’s such an important message,’ he says, and he’s not wrong. In an industry often criticized for glorifying invincibility, Mason’s embrace of vulnerability is refreshingly authentic.
Then there’s New Year’s Rev, where Mason teamed up with Green Day’s Billie Joe Armstrong. ‘He’s such a cool person,’ Mason recalls, sharing how Billie gifted him a guitar and wrote original songs for the film. But here’s the twist: Mason’s character is closely based on Billie’s real-life story, blending fiction with reality in a way that’s both intriguing and risky. Does this blurring of lines enhance the storytelling, or does it cross into uncomfortable territory?
Amidst his skyrocketing career, Mason remains grounded. ‘The most important thing is keeping your roots,’ he says, emphasizing the value of family and downtime. Whether he’s fishing in Texas or spending time with his dogs, Mason’s commitment to staying true to himself is admirable. But as he looks to the future—directing, perhaps?—one can’t help but wonder: Can he maintain this balance as his star continues to rise?
So, here’s the question for you: Is Mason Thames the next great chameleon of Hollywood, or is his genre-hopping a double-edged sword? Let us know in the comments—we’re all ears!
