The new live-action Masters of the Universe film, produced by Amazon MGM Studios, includes a wide-ranging ensemble cast, and it appears that Dolph Lundgren, who famously portrayed He-Man in the 1987 adaptation, may return for a role. Rumors of Lundgren’s participation sparked when he shared social media posts hinting at a secret project underway in London early in production, and recently he gave another indication confirming his involvement.
When asked about his role by Extra TV, Lundgren responded with a smile,
“Maybe, yeah, you will have to check it out when it comes out,”
suggesting that fans might see him in the new version.
Possible Role and Character Speculation
Though Lundgren’s exact character remains unconfirmed, many fans speculate he could portray King D’Vann Grayskull, an ancestor of He-Man within the story’s lore. This would offer a meaningful link to the original narrative, providing depth to the film’s exploration of Eternia’s heritage.
Lundgren Reflects on the New Film and Its Distinctive Hero
Sharing his perspective on the rebooted Masters of the Universe, Lundgren expressed mixed feelings about revisiting the franchise after so many years.
“If you think a new He-Man movie makes you feel old, I feel old! I was in it! They’ve been trying to remake the picture for at least 15 years, and I’m glad they’re doing it. There’s a great cast, a great crew. It’s a big budget picture with MGM/Amazon. I think they’re doing a great job,”
he said.
He also contrasted the character of Prince Adam with the heroes commonly portrayed in Marvel and DC films, noting,
“Prince Adam has a bit more romanticism to the character than other superheroes. Marvel and DC are a little harder-edged,”
adding,
“There’s something magical and childlike about it. And even though they’re kind of making an adult picture, there’s something soft and positive about that character.”
New Cast and Production Details
The reboot stars Nicholas Galitzine as Prince Adam/He-Man, with Camila Mendes as Teela, Jared Leto as Skeletor, and Idris Elba portraying Man-At-Arms. Morena Baccarin takes on the role of The Sorceress, while James Purefoy and Charlotte Riley play Adam’s parents, King Randor and Queen Marlena. Alison Brie appears as Evil-Lyn, Skeletor’s second-in-command.
Additional cast members include Sam C. Wilson (known for House of the Dragon) as Trap Jaw, Kojo Attah (from The Beekeeper) as Tri-Klops, and Jon Xue Zhang (featured in Eternals) as Ram-Man. Kristin Wiig, recognized from Wonder Woman 1984, provides the voice of Roboto.
Following a series of stalled attempts, Netflix initially planned a film adaptation in 2022 but later shelved the project. Subsequently, Amazon and MGM Studios acquired the rights, bringing on Bumblebee director Travis Knight for directing duties. The screenplay was rewritten by Chris Butler from an original draft by David Callaham, known for Shang-Chi and the Legend of the Ten Rings. Previously, the Nee Brothers, who directed The Lost City, were set to lead the project. Producers Todd Black, Jason Blumenthal, Steve Tisch, and DeVon Franklin are overseeing the production.
Plot Summary and Release Date
The storyline follows 10-year-old Prince Adam, who crash-lands on Earth after his spaceship incident, losing his magical Power Sword that connects him to his home planet, Eternia. Nearly two decades later, upon rediscovering the sword, Prince Adam returns to Eternia to defend it against the villainous Skeletor. To succeed, he must uncover secrets about his origins and embrace his destiny as He-Man, the most powerful man in the universe.
Masters of the Universe is scheduled for theatrical release on June 5, 2026, marking a highly anticipated return for the franchise under the banner of Amazon and MGM Studios.
