Masters of the Universe: Jared Leto’s Skeletor Will Display ’Toxic Masculinity’

The director of the new Masters of the Universe movie describes Jared Leto’s Skeletor as a prime example of harmful, traditional ideas about what it means to be a man.

This summer, Amazon MGM Studios will release the movie Masters of the Universe in U.S. theaters. Directed by Travis Knight, the film is based on the classic Mattel franchise. Nicholas Galitzine will star as Prince Adam, who transforms into He-Man, and Oscar winner Jared Leto will play the evil Skeletor.

What did Travis Knight say about Jared Leto’s Skeletor in Masters of the Universe?

I was reading Empire Magazine, and Matt Knight, someone involved with the new Masters of the Universe movie, was talking about what fans can expect from Joaquin Phoenix’s performance. He gave some insight into how Joaquin is approaching the role, which is really exciting for anyone like me who grew up with He-Man!

He described Skeletor as a compelling villain – visually striking, frightening, and surprisingly humorous. He also noted Skeletor’s underlying vulnerability and, of course, his unique voice, which they wanted a new actor to reimagine. Jared was a fan of the character and eager to take on the challenge. They collaborated to create a version everyone was pleased with, ultimately portraying Skeletor as a representation of harmful masculine traits.

Earlier versions of the Masters of the Universe film depicted Skeletor with a face that resembled a “golden skull mask.” But Knight strongly disliked this concept.

Knight bluntly stated his acceptance of Skeletor’s appearance, saying, ‘I don’t care that he has a skull for a face.’ He explained simply, ‘It’s a skull that’s alive, it talks, and it shows emotion – that’s just how it is.’

The new movie, Masters of the Universe, brings the classic story to life with an epic adventure. Fifteen years after being separated, Prince Adam (Nicholas Galitzine) is guided back to his home planet, Eternia, only to find it under the control of the villain Skeletor (Jared Leto). To save his family and world, Adam must become He-Man and team up with his friends, Teela (Camila Mendes) and Duncan/Man-At-Arms (Idris Elba), to fulfill his destiny as the most powerful man in the universe.

Masters of the Universe will be released on June 5, 2026.

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2026-02-06 21:57