Nicholas Galitzine believed that he didn’t measure up to play He-Man in “Masters of the Universe“. From the 1980s cartoon to countless Halloween costumes and action figures, the character carries decades of nostalgia. Hence, for Galitzine, stepping into that armor meant living up to a hero millions grew up idolizing.
Nicholas Galitzine thought he was unworthy of playing He-Man in Masters of the Universe
Nicholas Galitzine has admitted that he struggled with self-doubt, feeling he didn’t have what it took to step into He-Man’s boots for “Masters of the Universe”.
In an interview with TODAY, Galitzine opened up about playing the iconic character in the live-action Masters of the Universe movie. He explained why he first felt “unworthy” putting on the armor and shared details of the intense prep that went into building the hero’s strength.
Galitzine also spoke about Dolph Lundgren, who famously played He-Man in the 1987 live-action “Masters of the Universe”. He pointed out that the Swedish actor is an astrophysicist.
“It seems unfair. It’s kind of a tough act to follow. This 6’5″ Scandinavian God who’s also a genius and then there’s me,” he said, smiling at the contrast.
Speaking about overcoming his doubts, the “Cinderella” actor said the shift happened the moment he walked onto set, fully suited up and bulked up, with a Fabio-like tan.
The film follows Prince Adam, played by Galitzine, who returns to Eternia to claim his destiny as He-Man and stop Skeletor, portrayed by Jared Leto. Joining them are Idris Elba as Duncan, the general, and Camila Mendes as his adoptive daughter, Teela. Meanwhile, Alison Brie appears as sorceress Evil-Lyn and Sam C. Wilson plays Kronis, a cybernetic weapons expert. Adding to the nostalgia, original He-Man Lundgren has a cameo in the live-action Masters of the Universe movie.
Masters of the Universe is produced by Mattel Films President Robbie Brenner, who also serves as president and chief content officer of the combined unit. The film is directed by Travis Knight of “Bumblebee”, and opens in U.S. theaters on June 5.
