Before The Boys became its own franchise on Prime Video with spin-offs like Diabolical and the upcoming Gen V, creator Eric Kripke predicted that the show would conclude after five seasons. Interestingly, this aligns with the original comic series by Garth Ennis and Darick Robertson, which also had a finite number of issues.
However, as we approach the premiere of Season 4 on June 13, Kripke seems to be reconsidering his stance. Reflecting on his earlier assertions, Kripke told Inverse: I have learned since then to not try to call the seasons as the person who, and this is without hyperbole, is literally the most wrong in entertainment history of how many seasons their show should go. Someone pointed that out to me and I was like, ‘You’re right. That’s ridiculous. I need to keep my mouth shut.’ And so I will.
Reviving a Common Misstep
This isn’t the first time Kripke has misjudged a series’ longevity. When assuming that his earlier show Supernatural would wrap up after five seasons, he stepped down as showrunner, only for the show to continue for an extensive 15-season run. Such proclamations often falter when faced with fan demands and commercial interests.
A Defining Central Conflict
Despite these changes of heart, Kripke remains firm on one aspect: the climactic showdown between Billy Butcher and Homelander. He hinted at this resolution in an interview with Empire saying: You can’t build a show that’s about these two forces of Homelander and Butcher slowly closing in on each other without bringing that to a head. Whenever that last episode occurs, I know what happens.
Adding more seasons could dilute this impactful culmination.
The High Stakes Impact
The buzz around the renewal of The Boys for a fifth season somewhat diminishes stakes for Season 4. The political divide between Starlight and Homelander supporters should elevate tension; however, knowing there’s another season may undermine pivotal scenes involving characters like Billy Butcher and Homelander.
A Finite Masterpiece
The original comic book series by Garth Ennis and artist Darick Robertson also had a finite run, reminding us of the importance of having an intended conclusion. Ending The Boys after five seasons would honor its source material while maintaining its charm and high-quality storytelling.
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