As Masters of the Universe prepares to return in 2026, former He-Man actor Dolph Lundgren discusses the franchise’s revival and his potential role in it. Lundgren originally played the live-action version of He-Man in the cult favorite 1987 Master of the Universe, a campy, interdimensional adventure that brought the characters of Eternia into the real world. The new Masters of the Universe live-action film is helmed by Travis Knight and stars Nicholas Galitzine as He-Man, alongside Camila Mendes, Alison Brie, Idris Elba, and Jared Leto, and is set to be released on June 5, 2026, by Amazon MGM Studios.
In a Men’s Journal interview, Lundgren reflected on his 1987 portrayal of the sword-wielding hero, what makes him different from other action heroes, and spoke about the upcoming reboot, which recently wrapped filming. While praising the cast and scale of the new film, Lundgren was asked about a potential cameo in the film, to which he responded cryptically, saying, “It’s a bit of a secret, but I can’t say much.” Read Lundgren’s full comments below:
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.
Prince Adam has a bit more romanticism to the character than other superheroes. Marvel and DC are a little harder-edged. 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.
It’s a bit of a secret, but I can’t say much. But yeah, maybe I’ll get involved somehow. We’ll see.
What This Means For The New Masters Of The Universe
Lundgren’s Comments Suggest A Cameo Could Be In The Works
While Lundgren did not confirm any involvement in the 2026 Masters of the Universe film, he did not deny it either, and his vague wording suggests there might be something in the works. With Masters of the Universe being a franchise that leans heavily on interdimensional travel and magical technology like the Cosmic Key, Lundgren’s cameo would not be too difficult to pull off. A multiverse-style moment could easily reintroduce the original He-Man in a new context, maybe as an alternate of himself, a wise mentor, or a future battle-worn self.
These types of cameos have become increasingly popular in modern reboots, making Lundgren’s appearance both fitting and exciting. Given the enthusiasm around nostalgic cameos in projects like Spider-Man: No Way Home, which brought all the Spidey actors on screen together, including the original He-Man, it could increase the film’s appeal across generations and those who are most skeptical. His role wouldn’t have to be major; it could be just a symbolic moment where Lundgren acknowledges his legacy and pᴀsses the torch to Nicholas Galitzine’s He-Man.
Our Take On Dolph Lundgren’s Potential Cameo
It Would Be The Perfect Tribute To The Franchise’s Legacy
Lundgren’s support of the remake and clear willingness to return in some capacity is an exciting update for fans hoping to see him step into Prince Adam’s shoes once again. Even if the 1987 film was more a cult classic than a blockbuster, his role helped solidify He-Man as a live-action icon and left a mark on many of the original fans. Including him in the 2026 Masters of the Universe film wouldn’t just be fan service; it would help bridge the past and present in a way audiences would appreciate, and it would underline the character’s evolution.
Source: Men’s Journal