If you're a fan of the 1987 cult classic 'Masters of the Universe,' you're probably craving more epic adventures filled with heroic battles, cosmic conflicts, and larger-than-life characters. This article is your guide to 10 movies and TV shows that capture the same thrilling spirit, blending fantasy, sci-fi, and action. Whether you loved He-Man's quest to save Eternia or Skeletor's villainous schemes, these recommendations will transport you to worlds just as captivating.

The Real Ghostbusters (1986)
Description: Similar to Masters of the Universe (1987) in its blend of action, comedy, and supernatural elements. Both shows feature a team of heroes battling otherworldly threats, with a mix of humor and serious moments.
Fact: The Real Ghostbusters is based on the 1984 Ghostbusters film. The show was renamed to distinguish it from another animated series called Filmation's Ghostbusters. It ran for seven seasons and 140 episodes.


SilverHawks (1986)
Description: Shares a similar aesthetic and tone with Masters of the Universe (1987), featuring a team of cybernetic heroes battling a galactic villain. Both series were produced around the same time and share a focus on futuristic technology and space adventure.
Fact: SilverHawks was created by the same team behind ThunderCats. The show was known for its catchy theme song. It only ran for one season but has a cult following.


The Powerpuff Girls (1998)
Description: While more comedic, it shares with Masters of the Universe (1987) the theme of superpowered heroes protecting their world from villains. Both shows balance action with lighter moments and have a distinctive visual style.
Fact: The Powerpuff Girls was created by Craig McCracken. The show won two Emmy Awards. It has been praised for its feminist themes and strong female characters.


Galtar and the Golden Lance (1985)
Description: Like Masters of the Universe (1987), it is a fantasy adventure series with a heroic protagonist wielding a powerful weapon (the Golden Lance/Sword of Power). Both shows feature a mix of magic, mythology, and action-packed battles.
Fact: Galtar and the Golden Lance was produced by Hanna-Barbera. The series was short-lived, with only 21 episodes. It was part of the syndicated animated programming block The Funtastic World of Hanna-Barbera.


Samurai Jack (2001)
Description: Similar to Masters of the Universe (1987) in its epic quest narrative and a lone warrior battling a dark lord (Aku/Skeletor). Both series feature a blend of futuristic and ancient elements, with a strong emphasis on visual storytelling.
Fact: Samurai Jack was created by Genndy Tartakovsky. The show won four Emmy Awards. It was revived for a fifth season in 2017 to conclude the story.


Avatar: The Last Airbender (2005)
Description: Like Masters of the Universe (1987), it features a young hero (Aang/He-Man) destined to save the world from an oppressive ruler (Fire Lord Ozai/Skeletor). Both series combine action, adventure, and moral lessons, with a strong emphasis on friendship and teamwork.
Fact: Avatar: The Last Airbender was created by Michael Dante DiMartino and Bryan Konietzko. The show is heavily influenced by Asian cultures and martial arts. It won multiple Annie Awards and a Primetime Emmy.


The Legend of Korra (2012)
Description: Shares similarities with Masters of the Universe (1987) through its epic storytelling, a protagonist with immense power (Korra/He-Man), and a world where balance between opposing forces is key. Both series explore themes of responsibility, heroism, and the struggle against dark forces.
Fact: The Legend of Korra is a sequel to Avatar: The Last Airbender. Korra is the first Avatar from the Southern Water Tribe. The series introduced more mature themes compared to its predecessor.


Trollhunters: Tales of Arcadia (2016)
Description: Like Masters of the Universe (1987), it features a young hero discovering a hidden world and gaining a powerful artifact (the Amulet of Daylight/Sword of Power). Both series blend fantasy, adventure, and coming-of-age themes.
Fact: Trollhunters was created by Guillermo del Toro. The show is part of the Tales of Arcadia trilogy. It features the voice of the late Anton Yelchin in one of his final roles.


Voltron: Legendary Defender (2016)
Description: Similar to Masters of the Universe (1987) due to its high-stakes battles between good and evil, a team of heroes wielding unique powers, and a blend of science fiction and fantasy elements. Both series feature a strong leader (He-Man/Shiro) and a diverse group of allies fighting against a tyrannical force (Hordak/Zarkon).
Fact: Voltron: Legendary Defender is a reboot of the 1984 series Voltron: Defender of the Universe. The show was produced by DreamWorks Animation and Netflix. The series was praised for its character development and modern animation style.


Primal (2019)
Description: Shares with Masters of the Universe (1987) a focus on primal, visceral action and a hero battling against overwhelming odds. Both series use minimal dialogue, relying on visuals and music to convey emotion and tension.
Fact: Primal was also created by Genndy Tartakovsky. The show is known for its brutal, stylized animation. It won two Emmy Awards for Outstanding Animated Program.
