Masters of the Universe: Mekanek–even though she refuses to it it. Throughout the early issues of DC’s He-Man and the Masters of the Universe comic, Teela continually ribbed Mekanek and his unique abilities, but in issue four, after Teela is captured by Hordak’s forces, he reveals they actually share a deep bond, stretching back to their childhoods.
Masters of the Universe is one of the most popular franchises in toy history, selling millions of units during its first heyday in the 1980s. A huge part of the toy line’s success was due to a syndicated cartoon, which effectively doubled as an ad for the toys. He-Man and his allies also have a long history with comics, stretching back to the mini-comics that came bundled with the toys. Both Marvel and DC have held the rights to produce Masters of the Universe comics and in 2013, DC released a new comic, titled He-Man and the Masters of the Universe, that presented a more mature and sophisticated take on the property, one invoking the 2002 cartoon reboot. Characters who got the short shrift in the original were brought back and fleshed out further, showing just how rich the world of Eternia was.
And in issue four, written by Keith Giffen and illustrated by Pop Mhan, it was Mekanek’s turn to shine. In an earlier issue, reminding Man-At-Arms that Teela has a sharp tongue that spares no one, Mekanek tells him that, as children, other kids made fun of him for his abilities, but Teela took up for him, even going as far as to declare Mekanek her “boyfriend.” Teela put an end to the bullying and Mekanek never forgot. He explains to her father that despite her attitude, deep down Teela is one of his best friends.
Teela Is the Most Big-Hearted of the Masters of the Universe
Indeed, in light of Teela’s words earlier, it would seem odd she would call Mekanek a friend–but as he points out, Teela may have a sharp tongue, but she also has a heart of gold. Mekanek’s neck-stretching abilities make him one of the more unique of the Masters of the Universe, and a natural at surveillance; however, it made him an odd man out as a child and a target for bullies. Yet Teela stood up for him, anticipating the noble and heroic warrior she would become later in life. She may not always show it, but she cares deeply for everyone around her.
Mekanek’s abilities have made him one of the most underrated of the Masters of the Universe, and this issue is not the first time this unique character’s backstory has been explored: an episode of the 2002 reboot, titled “Mekanek’s Lament” spotlighted the character, showing his vast potential as one of He-Man’s allies. Teela sees the potential in Mekanek as well, and while she will not it it, he is her secret favorite member of the Masters of the Universe.
