WINTER 2025
“I’ve played a lot of villains, so the chance to play someone who is, at least for now, a good guy was a refreshing challenge.”
— CHRIS MASON
WEARING VERSACE
SWORDS AND SHADOWS
PHOTOGRAPHY SELA SHILONI
STYLING NICO AMARCA
Stepping into the legendary Dune universe is a challenge few actors are prepared for, but for Chris Mason, it was an opportunity to redefine himself. In HBO’s Dune: Prophecy, Mason takes on the role of Keiran Atreides, a Swordmaster torn between rebellion and personal morality. Known for his villanous roles, the Liverpool-born actor relished the chance to play a character driven by loyalty and heart. With the season finale leaving fans eager for more, Mason reflects on the complexities of Keiran’s journey, the physical and emotional demands of the role, and the timeless lessons the story offers about resilience and staying true to one’s values.
Total look VERSACE.
Total look BRUNELLO CUCINELLI.
Stepping into the expansive Dune universe is no small feat, especially when joining a saga as legendary as the one created by Frank Herbert. For actor Chris Mason, playing Keiran Atreides in Dune: Prophecy was both a thrilling and transformative experience. As fans witnessed the final chapter of this intricate, politically charged world, which streamed its last episode on HBO and Max on December 22nd, the Liverpool-born actor reflects on the complexities of his character and the profound impact this role has had on him. Known for his portrayal of manipulative characters like Chad Gekko in Riverdale, Mason’s role as Keiran Atreides marked a significant departure. Keiran, a highly skilled Swordmaster of House Corrino, is torn between his duties to the rebellion and his personal moral compass. Unlike the villains Mason has portrayed in the past, Keiran Atreides is driven by loyalty, heart, and a deep sense of duty. "I’ve played a lot of villains, so the chance to play someone who is, at least for now, a good guy was a refreshing challenge," Mason shares. "Keiran is true to his heart, and there’s real complexity to him. The script constantly throws obstacles his way, which made the role even more enticing." As a member of House Atreides, Keiran is not only a skilled fighter but also a man grappling with the legacy of his family name. The internal conflict between his duty to the rebellion and his personal beliefs forms the crux of his character’s arc. This tension is further amplified by his relationship with Princess Ynez, whom he trains as a Swordmaster. "Keiran is torn between his heart and his head," says Mason. "I drew from my own experiences of navigating inner conflict, for example in those times when a new relationship or situation came along at the worst possible time. That’s what Ynez represents: an undeniable bond that arrives at a crucial moment, complicating everything." Through his bond with Ynez, Keiran begins to question his commitment to the rebellion, leading him to confront the moral dilemmas that define Dune’s larger political landscape. His role as Swordmaster is not just about his physical prowess—it’s also about the responsibility of teaching the next generation of warriors. Mason immersed himself in the discipline of Hapkido to better understand Keiran’s mindset. Although the training wasn’t directly related to combat scenes, it gave the British actor insight into the mental fortitude required for his character’s role as a teacher. "I did some Hapkido training, not so much for the fighting style but for the discipline and mental toughness," Mason explains. "It helped me understand how Keiran would carry himself as a teacher. It informed the way he would mentor Ynez and how he would deal with the challenges that arise." At the heart of the Swordmaster’s journey is his struggle with the rebellion he’s leading. While the young Atreidis believes he’s fighting for the greater good, the moral toll of his actions weighs heavily on him. "He’s doing what he believes is right by leading the rebellion," Mason says. "But the violence and the lives lost are difficult for him to process. His growing relationship with Ynez only complicates things. It's a tragic, yet compelling, aspect of the character—one that he must grapple with throughout the series." Mason sees a piece of himself in Keiran—especially in their shared values. Growing up in Liverpool, a city known for its tight-knit community and rebellious spirit, Mason was drawn to Keiran’s authenticity and loyalty to his beliefs. "Keiran’s got a big heart, and I can relate to that," he says. "Growing up in Liverpool, we were always standing up to the establishment and looking out for one another. That spirit is part of me, and I wanted to bring that into Keiran." Joining the Dune franchise was no small task for Mason, especially given the immense fanbase and the weight of the series’ legacy. But instead of feeling daunted, the British performer found the experience to be an inspiring challenge. "It was a bit daunting at first, but ultimately an honor," Mason admits. "There’s a responsibility to the fans, and it’s important to stay true to the essence of the Dune universe while also creating something fresh.
Coat AMIRI, top, pants, and boots VERSACE.