A Single The Boys S1 Scene Turned Homelander Into A Tragic Character

Many fans claim that The Boys is one rare example of a TV show that actually surpasses its source material. While the original comic relies on shock value a lot and portrays the Supes as one-dimensional characters, the show has managed to really flesh out their personalities.

And perhaps the most well-developed character in the show is Homelander, brilliantly played by New Zealand actor Antony Starr. In the most challenging role in his entire career, Starr perfectly conveys the psychopathic nature of his character, who in the blink of an eye goes from a charming hero to deranged and menacing monster.

Oddly enough, Homelander became a fan favorite the moment the show premiered in 2019, and one of the reasons for that is that he's a truly profound and even tragic character. While this may not be enough to redeem Homelander, this certainly makes him pitiable at least.

In Season 1 of The Boys, there is one scene that really captures the tragedy behind Homelander's upbringing. Episode 7, titled 'The Self-Preservation Society,' features a conversation between Homelander and his creator, Dr. Jonah Vogelbaum, which allows viewers to understand why the Supe has turned into the villain he is now.

Giving one of the best performances of the entire series, Antony Starr delivers immaculate micro-expressions to reveal how his character feels deep inside. When Vogelbaum says he is sorry for raising the boy as a lab rat, Homelander drops the facade for a few moments, and it becomes painfully clear how much he would love to have a family that would've cared for him when he was little.

Starr's powerful performance elevates the tragedy of the scene to extremity, helping viewers appreciate the depth of his character and how much he suffered in his life. Although he is a ruthless killer and manipulator now, we can't really blame the traumatized little boy who had been mistreated by Vogelbaum and other Vought staff.

There are only a handful of moments like this in the three seasons of the show, and we hope there will be more in the upcoming Season 4. When the character dies (and everyone hopes he will, right?), scenes like this would add to the drama and significance of that moment.