Justin Rupple Attends How to Train Your Dragon Launch

On a sunny afternoon at Universal Orlando Resort, comedian and social media personality Justin Rupple stepped into the mythical world of How to Train Your Dragon. The event marked the latest preview of Universal’s Epic Universe, the long-awaited fourth park set to open in 2025. Rupple used his platform to thank key collaborators, family members and even his gear sponsor for making the day unforgettable.

A Preview Of Epic Universe’s Dragon Realm

Universal’s Epic Universe promises fully immersive lands inspired by blockbuster franchises, and How to Train Your Dragon is among the first areas revealed. Rupple’s Instagram post praised director Dean DeBlois for “believing in his vision so much he created a real world,” referring to the meticulous details of the Viking villages, animatronic dragons and interactive rides. DeBlois, who co-wrote and directed the original 2010 DreamWorks film, previously told fans that the goal was to let visitors “soar alongside Toothless” and explore Berk like never before. The park’s opening timeline has shifted slightly over the past two years, but Universal Orlando Resort officials confirmed that a phased debut will begin mid-2025, with How to Train Your Dragon among the first attractions to welcome guests.

Star-studded Guest List

Rupple shared snaps alongside influencer Faye Dunaway (@fayedunaway) and content creator Chloe (@chloeiscrazy), both of whom posed with Universal host Andy Cohen (@bravoandy). In his caption, Rupple wrote: “The stars came out! Thank you to Faye Dunaway and Chloe as well as Andy Cohen for being so wonderful in person!” Fans spotted Cohen sporting a branded Epic Universe lanyard as he mingled with cast members from the film’s voice ensemble. While Universal kept many celebrity appearances under wraps, Rupple’s social media feed offered a peek at the excitement building around the immersive land.

Family And Fashion Salute

Among those Rupple acknowledged were his wife, Katy Rupple, and friend Claire ScaCloset, along with his parents, Carol and Louis Spadoni, and stepdad, Jamie Rupple. He also expressed gratitude to his on-site guides—Gizelle, Lindsay and Emily—for “walking us around.” But fashion fans noted his shout-out to golf apparel brand D Hudson Golfwear. Rupple has frequently collaborated with the label: in a recent Instagram post, he showcased their “Not So Funny” cap line designed for the golfer “who knows WHO they really are.” For the Epic Universe trip, he credited D Hudson for “outfitting me this trip,” pairing a sleek polo and performance trousers with a custom cap.

Rupple even gave a special nod to “Gerard and his team” for their backstage coordination, and to friend Mr. So Cool (@mr_socool90) “for getting me out of my cabin and into the franchise.” While the latter quip left followers curious, it underscored the camaraderie behind the scenes of major theme-park previews.

As Universal Orlando prepares to welcome fans into its Epic Universe, influencers like Rupple are playing a key role in building buzz. His mix of heartfelt thanks and behind-the-scenes glimpses brings a personal touch to the park’s marketing push. With interactive dragon-flyer rides, character meet-and-greets and live stunt shows on the horizon, Rupple’s preview marks just the beginning of what promises to be an epic journey for parkgoers.

From heartfelt family shout-outs to starry companions and a well-styled ensemble courtesy of D Hudson Golfwear, Justin Rupple’s day at Epic Universe delivered romance, adventure and a solid dose of humor. Fans of both the comedian and the beloved dragon saga can look forward to stepping into Hiccup’s world for real in just under two years.

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Pratibha

 

Pratibha holds a master's degree in English from Madras University. A bookworm from a young age, she devours books and digital humanities to nourish her writing projects. Pratibha began her writing career in 2018 and has experience writing formal, informal, and technical content.

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