Jared Leto’s Skeletor Redefined in Masters of the Universe Film
Director Travis Knight reveals that Jared Leto’s Skeletor in Masters of the Universe represents a bold reimagining of the iconic villain, portraying him as a complex symbol of toxic masculinity.
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‘Masters of the Universe’ Director Says Jared Leto’s Skeletor Represents Toxic Masculinity”
As Masters of the Universe prepares to hit the big screen, one of the most iconic villains in pop culture is set to receive a bold cinematic reimagining. Director Travis Knight has offered fresh insight into Jared Leto’s portrayal of Skeletor, describing the character as “the embodiment of toxic masculinity.”
The upcoming live-action adaptation from Amazon, MGM Studios, and Mattel, scheduled to release in theatres on June 5, aims to reinvent the beloved franchise for a modern audience. According to Knight, the creative team encouraged Leto to fully embrace the complexity of the villain, allowing him to explore every dimension of the character.
“I let Jared swing for the fences,” Knight said in a recent interview with Empire. “Skeletor was a really interesting villain. He looked cool. He was scary. He was funny. He was insecure. And naturally, his voice was instantly recognisable.
Knight emphasised that Leto’s performance dives deep into Skeletor’s emotional and psychological layers, presenting him not just as a traditional cartoon antagonist, but as a deeply flawed, insecure, and power-hungry figure. By framing the character as a symbol of toxic masculinity, the film aims to explore themes of ego, control, and inner conflict, adding greater depth to the legendary villain.
The director’s comments suggest that audiences can expect a fresh and nuanced interpretation of Skeletor, blending menace, dark humour, and emotional vulnerability. Leto’s version is expected to deliver a performance that honours the character’s legacy while offering a more grounded and contemporary take.
With high production values, a star-studded cast, and a renewed creative vision, Masters of the Universe is shaping up to be one of the most anticipated fantasy-action releases of the year. Fans can look forward to seeing how this new portrayal reshapes one of animation’s most recognisable villains when the film arrives in theatres this June.
