Nicholas Galitzine reveals it is surreal to star as He-Man in 'Masters of the Universe'

Nicholas Galitzine has opened up about the deeply personal significance of landing the lead role in Masters of the Universe, describing the experience as a surreal full-circle moment after years of struggling to break through in Hollywood.

A pinch me moment

Speaking to Entertainment Tonight at the film's premiere, the 31-year-old British actor reflected on how far he has come since his early days trying to make it as an actor in Los Angeles.

"It is surreal. I was just telling the guys, I remember coming out here exactly where we're standing as a 20-year-old, you know, when I'd come out here for pilot season and I'd stay here for three months and sleep on people's couches," Galitzine said.

"I thought if I could ever have a movie here that would be pretty amazing, and so it's very pinch me. But I'm trying to sort of soak it all in," he added.

An extremely daunting physical challenge

In a separate interview with Empire magazine, Galitzine acknowledged the formidable physical demands of portraying He-Man — widely regarded as one of the most iconic physiques in popular culture.

"I think anyone seeing that iconic physique would find it extremely daunting," the actor admitted.

About the film

Masters of the Universe features Galitzine as the most powerful man in the universe, alongside a star-studded ensemble cast that includes Idris Elba, Jared Leto, Camila Mendes, and Alison Brie. The film is set for release in cinemas on 5 June 2026.