‘The Boys’ Season 4 Episode 1 Recap: Homelander’s Menacing Return
Antony Starr returns as the sinister Homelander in the premiere of “The Boys” Season 4, setting a dark tone for the unfolding narrative. Homelander, the dangerous leader of The Seven, continues to exhibit his malevolent energy, suggesting significant turmoil ahead.
The series, led by showrunner Eric Kripke, who has been open about its commentary on Trumpism, kicks off its fourth season with the first three episodes on Prime Video. This recap covers Episode 1, avoiding major spoilers.
The Boys’ Premise
“The Boys” follows a vigilante group aiming to expose “superheroes” created by the Vought Corporation using a serum called Compound V. These heroes, particularly The Seven, hide their true, nefarious motives from the public. Starlight’s (Erin Moriarty) viral post in Season 3 began unveiling Vought’s deception.
Season 3 Finale Recap
In the previous season’s finale, Homelander publicly killed a protester who attacked his son, Ryan (Cameron Crovetti), revealing his violent nature. Season 4 opens with Homelander’s trial, echoing the public spectacle of former President Trump’s criminal proceedings, with protests from both anti-Supes (Starlighters) and Homelander’s supporters (the Home Team).
Homelander asserts his innocence, confident in Vought’s influence. He plans a heinous crime to frame the Starlighters, attempting to mend his public image through deception.
Episode 1 Overview
The season begins more subdued compared to Season 3’s explosive start, setting up new dynamics within The Seven. Starlight has joined The Boys, and Queen Maeve is missing. New to the team is Sister Sage (Susan Heyward), who, as the world’s smartest person, is brought in by Homelander to combat the perceived incompetence around him.
Character Developments
Billy Butcher (Karl Urban), facing a terminal condition from a temporary Compound V dose, remains focused on saving Ryan from Homelander. Meanwhile, Hughie (Jack Quaid) faces a personal crisis, and VP candidate Valerie Neuman (Claudia Doumit) deals with her daughter’s volatile behavior after using Compound V on her.
Frenchie (Tomer Capone) and Kimiko (Karen Fukuhara) navigate their evolving relationship, adding to the season’s dramatic weight.
Episode Balance
Despite the heavy drama, Episode 1 balances with the series’ signature gore and dark humor. Kripke delivers excessive, absurd action scenes that both unsettle and amuse.
Season 4 promises a wild, entertaining ride, maintaining the high standards of previous seasons while advancing its masterful storytelling.
“The Boys” Season 4 is now available exclusively on Prime Video.
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