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Idris Elba Brings Combat Training to Life in Masters of the Universe Live-Action Remake

Idris Elba starred opposite Essex schoolgirl Delilah O'Riordan in combat training for the Masters of the Universe live-action film.

Asude Karataş • 15 Haziran 2026 16:01 • 3 dk okuma • 14 görüntülenme

A 13-year-old schoolgirl who trained in combat choreography with Idris Elba for the live-action Masters of the Universe remake described the experience as "great fun" and praised the actor's professionalism on set. The young performer, Delilah O'Riordan from Essex, appeared opposite Elba in a training scene where the British star's character, Duncan—general of the royal army—prepared troops for battle. The film, which reimagines the 1980s animated series, released in UK cinemas in May.

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On-Set Experience and Combat Training
Set Atmosphere and Production Details

On-Set Experience and Combat Training

O'Riordan, who earned the role of young Dian, a member of the royal guard, described Elba as "really lovely" and noted that rehearsals were filled with humour. "We did a few practises and he was like making jokes and things so it was really funny," she said in an interview with BBC Essex. The schoolgirl, who had previously worked with Tom Hanks on the 2024 film Here, found herself balancing exam revision with Hollywood production demands, occasionally retreating to her trailer to study Mandarin during downtime.

The stunt training proved particularly rewarding for O'Riordan, whose background in ballet complemented her character's choreography. Christiaan Bettridge, who portrayed the adult version of Dian, shared similar training in both ballet and stunt performance. Observers on set noted that both performers displayed comparable elegance and style during combat sequences, a synergy O'Riordan attributed to their shared dance backgrounds.

Set Atmosphere and Production Details

O'Riordan characterised the production environment as "down-to-earth" and inclusive, describing the cast and crew as feeling "like a family." The film features an ensemble including Nicholas Galitzine as He-Man, alongside Camila Mendes, Jared Leto, and Alison Brie. The premiere proved to be a significant moment for the young actor, who had kept her involvement confidential under a non-disclosure agreement and was surprised when classmates recognised her on screen.

What role did Delilah O'Riordan play in Masters of the Universe?+

O'Riordan played young Dian, a member of the royal guard who is trained alongside He-Man as a child. Her character bullies He-Man at school, allowing O'Riordan to explore a more antagonistic role than she had previously undertaken.

How did Idris Elba and O'Riordan interact during filming?+

Elba played Duncan, the general of the royal army responsible for training young troops. O'Riordan described him as welcoming and humorous during rehearsals, creating a comfortable environment for combat choreography practice.

What other films has Delilah O'Riordan appeared in?+

At age 13, O'Riordan worked with Tom Hanks on the 2024 film Here before joining the Masters of the Universe cast a year later. She did not publicly disclose her involvement in either project until the films were released.

When did the live-action Masters of the Universe remake release?+

The film hit UK cinemas in May, marking the release of the live-action adaptation of the 1980s animated series.

Did O'Riordan's training background prepare her for stunt work?+

Yes. O'Riordan is trained in ballet, which complemented her combat choreography work on set. Her dance background aligned with that of Christiaan Bettridge, who played her adult counterpart and is also a trained stunt performer.

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