The upcoming live-action adaptation of Masters of the Universe is set to reintroduce iconic ’80s characters with a modern edge, and director Travis Knight has now shared striking new details about Jared Leto’s take on the legendary villain Skeletor.
Speaking in a recent interview, Knight described Leto’s Skeletor as “the embodiment of toxic masculinity,” signaling a bold reinterpretation of the classic antagonist. According to the director, the goal was not to dilute Skeletor’s legacy, but to deepen it—giving the character psychological weight while keeping his menacing essence intact.
Knight explained that Leto fully committed to the role, pushing boundaries and embracing the darker themes required for a modern retelling. “He wanted to swing for the fences,” the director noted, highlighting the actor’s intense approach to portraying the power-hungry sorcerer.
The filmmaker emphasized that the creative team worked closely with the cast to balance nostalgia with relevance. While the film honors the exaggerated, mythic qualities that made He-Man and Skeletor cultural icons, it also reframes them for contemporary audiences by exploring ideas of power, identity, and corruption.
This new vision of Skeletor is expected to play a central role in the film’s conflict, positioning him as more than just a cackling villain—but rather a symbol of unchecked ego and destructive dominance.
With anticipation building following the debut trailer, Masters of the Universe is shaping up to be a darker, more character-driven reimagining that could redefine the franchise for a new generation.
