“The Boys” kicked off with a provocative question for our superhero-saturated pop culture: What if extraordinary powers came with corruption, neuroses, and corporate greed? This dark, satirical take on superheroes has evolved into TV’s most political drama, with its much-anticipated fourth season putting this aspect front and center.
Don’t be deceived by the masks and capes. As the US gears up for a presidential campaign, the latest episodes amplify the show’s longstanding political themes. This Amazon Prime Video hit, along with its spinoffs “Gen V” and “The Boys Presents: Diabolical,” has become the service’s signature series.
The Boys S4: Power, Politics, and Ryan
The fourth season continues the clash between Vought International’s superheroes, led by the psychopathic Homelander (Antony Starr), and their opposition, spearheaded by Billy Butcher (Karl Urban). Their conflict now includes the battle for Homelander’s son, Ryan (Cameron Crovetti), raising questions of nature versus nurture.
This season dives deeper into politics with politician Victoria Neuman (Claudia Doumit) and Vought’s efforts to influence public debate. With references to movements like QAnon and events like Truthcon, the show critiques the manipulation of public opinion and reveals the disdain of those in power towards their followers in classic “The Boys” style.
