The Boys Creator Worries About Political TV’s ‘Cooling Effect’

In its fourth season, “The Boys” went beyond its usual wild antics to take on the world of politics. Set against the backdrop of a presidential election cycle, the show dove deep into themes of power, corporate control, and media manipulation. Showrunner Eric Kripke is proud of how the show manages to stay current and unexpected, especially for a superhero series.

The show’s main focus in Season 4 is on Homelander, a character with Superman-like abilities who is intent on gaining political power. Drawing parallels to real-world figures like Elon Musk, Homelander’s desire to control the country through Vought International reflects the show’s satirical take on modern politics. Throughout the season, viewers will see elements reminiscent of the current administration, such as propaganda networks, collectible NFTs, and masked agents taking dissenters off the streets.

Despite the show’s uncanny ability to predict societal issues, Kripke emphasizes that the scripts were written well before the events that inspired them. He humorously refers to the writers’ room as “Satan’s Writers’ Room,” acknowledging the show’s knack for tackling relevant and pressing issues that continue to plague society.

Actor Antony Starr, who plays Homelander, clarifies that his character isn’t modeled after any specific real-world figure, although he draws inspiration from various sources. Starr’s portrayal of Homelander as a flawed, egotistical demagogue adds depth to the character and adds a layer of complexity to the show’s political themes.

As “The Boys” continues to push boundaries and explore new territories, fans can expect a wild and thought-provoking ride in Season 4. With its blend of dark humor, intense action, and sharp social commentary, the show remains a standout in the world of streaming entertainment.