Pig Boy: A Nostalgic Character in 'Masters of the Universe' Films
In Travis Knight's 2026 fantasy action/comedy film "Masters of the Universe," there is a scene where the villain Skeletor, played by Jared Leto, is resting on a stone slab under a funerary shroud. When a servant named Pig Boy, a blue-skinned anthropomorphic pig, enters to wake him, Skeletor threatens him with being turned into sausages, causing Pig Boy to cower in fear.
Pig Boy is a character from the 1987 live-action "Masters of the Universe" film directed by Gary Goddard, not based on the toy products like many other characters in the 2026 adaptation. The '80s movie, known for its low budget and loose adaptation of the Mattel toys, featured Pigboy working for Skeletor and handing him a magical staff. The original Pigboy was played by Richard Szponder, a child actor who won the role through a Mattel contest in 1986.
Richard Szponder, who won the contest at the age of eight, recalled the excitement of winning a role in the 1987 film and receiving a store of "Masters of the Universe" toys. He also enjoyed a trip to Los Angeles, including visits to Disneyland and Universal Studios Hollywood. Szponder's experience on set involved long costume fittings and uncomfortable mask application, as his character's mask had to be glued to his face. Despite some challenges, Szponder was thrilled to be part of the film.
Szponder's scene in the 1987 film was originally supposed to be longer, with Skeletor yelling at him, but it ended up being brief. He mentioned that his character was initially named Mata-Shai and expressed some disappointment in being called "Pigboy" instead. When asked if he would reprise his role in a future "Masters of the Universe" movie, Szponder revealed that he did not have serious acting aspirations.
In conclusion, the inclusion of Pig Boy in the 2026 "Masters of the Universe" film adaptation is a nod to the original 1987 movie and a deep cut for fans of the franchise. Richard Szponder's experience as Pigboy in the '80s film remains a memorable part of his childhood, despite the challenges he faced on set.