The passing of the sword felt very real on the red carpet.
Nicholas Galitzine and Dolph Lundgren came face-to-face at the Los Angeles premiere of “Masters of the Universe,” marking a rare full-circle moment nearly 40 years in the making. Galitzine, 31, now steps into the role of He-Man in the 2026 remake, while Lundgren, 68, famously brought the character to life in the 1987 cult classic. Seeing the two together was more than just a photo op. It symbolized a generational handoff of one of pop culture’s most recognizable heroes.
The actors posed side by side at the TCL Chinese Theatre and again at the after-party, raising their fists in a nod to the iconic character. But behind the visuals was a deeper meaning. Lundgren described the moment as “passing the sword over,” telling People, “It was a great feeling for me… I was really honored to be part of it.” He also praised Galitzine’s performance, adding, “It’s great that he’s such a great He-Man.”
Dolph Lundgren Teases Possible Return to the Franchise
The legacy moment may not be the only connection between the past and present versions of He-Man.
According to The Hollywood Reporter, Lundgren hinted that fans might see him in the new film, teasing a possible cameo. “I hear I may be in it,” he said, suggesting he could appear in a mentor-type role. While details remain under wraps, the tease adds another layer to the symbolic passing of the torch.
Lundgren also admitted he was initially unsure the reboot would ever come together after years of stalled attempts. That changed once he read the script, which he described as “a really serious attempt” at bringing the story back, with a sense of “charm” and “sensitivity.”
He continued to show support for Galitzine, emphasizing that the role requires more than just a physical transformation. “You need a guy who is a leading-man type, and the muscles and the strength are secondary,” he said, noting that Galitzine “built himself up” for the role.
Inside the New ‘Masters of the Universe’ Era
Galitzine’s journey to becoming He-Man was no small feat. The actor underwent months of intense training to physically transform for the role, later describing it as “the hardest thing I’ve ever done,” per People. He explained that while the process was challenging, it was also rewarding, calling it “incredibly empowering.”
Once filming wrapped, he was more than ready to relax. “I want to say I had a combination of sushi and pizza… ‘Give it. Give it all to me,’” he said of his first cheat meal, adding, “Food is everything to me.”
The film itself revisits the origins of Prince Adam, who was sent to Earth as a child before returning to Eternia to face Skeletor, played by Jared Leto. Alongside Galitzine, the cast includes Camila Mendes as Teela, Idris Elba as Man-At-Arms and Alison Brie as Evil-Lyn. According to reports, the story follows Adam as he embraces his destiny to become “the most powerful man in the universe.”
The project also drew strong interest from its cast, with Leto actively pursuing the role of Skeletor. Mattel Studios president Robbie Brenner revealed he “really wanted to play Skeletor” and even declared, “I am Skeletor,” before landing the part.
With its mix of nostalgia, new faces and a clear respect for the original, the film is set to introduce He-Man to a new generation while honoring its roots. “Masters of the Universe” hits theaters June 5.
