Butler gears up for 'fighting family Christmas'

Gerard Butler, the well-known Scottish actor, is taking on a new and exciting role as Santa Claus in a Christmas animation titled The Night Before Christmas in Wonderland. This film is a delightful blend of the classic Christmas poem 'Twas The Night Before Christmas by Clement Clarke Moore and the whimsical story of Alice in Wonderland by Lewis Carroll. In this enchanting tale, Santa and his reindeer embark on a magical journey into Wonderland, where they aim to lift the spirits of the Queen of Hearts during the holiday season, with the help of beloved characters like Alice and the Mad Hatter. Butler, who is famous for his action-packed roles in films like 300 and Olympus Has Fallen, expresses his joy in finally portraying the iconic figure of Santa. He shares, 'I've finally conquered it. I'm playing Santa,' and he feels that this role is a dream come true. Butler has a strong connection to his Scottish roots and looks forward to spending Christmas with his family in Scotland. He emphasizes the importance of this time, saying, 'I almost always come back. It's an important time to check in. ' He believes that a traditional Scottish Christmas involves gathering with family and friends, and sometimes engaging in playful arguments that can lead to a few broken glasses. Butler's portrayal of Santa is described as a bit foolish but full of joy, as he simply loves being Santa. He believes that making movies like this one is special because they can be enjoyed by families during the holiday season. 'I do think it could become a little Christmas classic,' he remarks. The film promises to be a fun and entertaining experience for viewers of all ages. In addition to his acting, Butler will also showcase his singing talents in this animation, reminiscent of his performance in the musical Phantom of The Opera. He shares that he was eager to dive into the project and didn't want to overthink it. 'The second I read this script, I could just hear my voice and see those little moments,' he explains. Butler's Scottish accent adds a unique charm to his character, making him a fun and lively Santa. The film features a talented cast, including Emilia Clarke from Game of Thrones as the Queen of Hearts and Simone Ashley from Bridgerton as Alice. The Night Before Christmas in Wonderland is set to be released on Sky Cinema for UK audiences on December 13, and Butler is excited for families to enjoy this magical holiday adventure together.