Nicholas Galitzine Shares the Tough Journey of Transforming for His Role as He-Man
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British actor Nicholas Galitzine recently opened up about the gruelling transformation he underwent to embody the iconic character of He-Man in the upcoming live-action adaptation of Masters of the Universe. Taking over the role from Dolph Lundgren, who portrayed the superhero in a 1987 film, Galitzine shared the challenges he faced in bulking up for the character.
Galitzine revealed to PEOPLE that the physical demands of preparing for the role while filming another project, the fantasy romance 100 Nights of Hero, were intense. Describing the experience as “the hardest thing I’ve ever done,” he emphasised the daily commitment required to achieve the desired physique. He expressed that the process was both challenging and empowering, with the goal always in sight but never within easy reach, especially during the bulking phase.
During the transformation, the Red, White & Royal Blue actor, aged 31, confessed to experiencing body dysmorphia as he struggled to recognise himself and fit into his clothes. The actor even jokingly shared that he left a “definite dent” on the side of the bed he slept on due to his increased size. Despite the physical changes, Galitzine expressed gratitude for the opportunity to portray such a larger-than-life character but admitted that maintaining that physique long-term would not be his preference.
In June 2025, Galitzine offered a sneak peek of his He-Man look by sharing a behind-the-scenes photo on Instagram. The image featured the actor flexing his arm muscles while donning He-Man’s distinctive costume, complete with arm gear, combat boots, and a longsword. In the caption, he reflected on wrapping up filming for Masters of the Universe, expressing pride in playing the dual roles of Adam and He-Man and dedicating himself fully to the part.
Having announced his casting in May 2024, Galitzine expressed his excitement about fulfilling a lifelong dream to embody a character known for his heart, humour, and heroism. Masters of the Universe will not only showcase Galitzine as He-Man but also feature Jared Leto as the antagonist Skeletor, alongside other talented actors in supporting roles such as Camila Mendes as Teela.
Scheduled for release on June 5, 2026, the movie promises an exciting revival of the beloved franchise, with fans eagerly anticipating Galitzine’s portrayal of the legendary hero. As the physical demands of the role challenged Galitzine to push his limits, his dedication and commitment to embodying He-Man underscore his passion for his craft and embrace of new challenges in his acting career.
In conclusion, Nicholas Galitzine’s journey to transform into He-Man showcases the dedication and perseverance required of actors in bringing iconic characters to life on the big screen. His commitment to the role serves as a testament to his passion for storytelling and his willingness to undertake the physical and mental challenges that come with portraying such a beloved and enduring superhero.