Furthermore, since his creation He-Man has achieved gay icon status and amassed an LGBT following-specifically amongst gay men. Many critics have taken note of his queer-coded nature and perceived homosexuality, especially in his relationships with other male characters, particularly Skeletor. He-Man has been singled out for the homoeroticism and gay subtext surrounding his character. Presenting three different versions of the figure to Mattel-including a soldier and a spaceman-the barbarian version of the character was chosen and developed into the character's current form. The character was created by designer Roger Sweet, who intentionally created the character in such a way for him to be abstract and generic enough to be applied into any context and genre Sweet also chose the name 'He-Man' for being generic. He-Man and his friends attempt to defend the realm of Eternia and the secrets of Castle Grayskull from the evil forces of Skeletor. He-Man is characterized by his superhuman strength and in most variations, is the alter ego of Prince Adam. He-Man is a superhero and the main character of the sword and sorcery Masters of the Universe franchise, which includes a toy line, several animated television series, comic books and a feature film. Love interest/girlfriend: Mara (in The New Adventures of He-Man) Wife: Teela (in the expanded MOTU/POP universe/later becoming queen after becoming the new Sorceress)
