Warning: The article contains SPOILERS for Gen V episode 6, "Jumanji."
Summary
The introduction of a new Supe virus in Gen V has the potential to ignite a power struggle between Vought International and the Supes in The Boys season 4. To maintain consistency and prevent any complications, the writers of both shows collaborated to coordinate the virus storyline.
The virus outbreak in the show relates to real-life events, such as the COVID-19 pandemic, adding an interesting and timely aspect to the story. Gen V producers, Eric Kripke and Michele Fazekas, have explained how the introduction of the new Supe virus sets up the plot for Season 4 of The Boys. Throughout the spinoff series set at Vought International's Godolkin University, the existence of a mysterious research facility called "The Woods" has been teased. In episode 6, titled "Jumanji," it is revealed that Dr. Edison Cardosa, a scientist, has been covertly developing a virus specifically targeting Supes, upon the request of Dean Shetty, portrayed by Shelley Conn, who wanted it to be contagious.
In a recent interview with Entertainment Weekly, Kripke and Fazekas, the showrunners of The Boys and Gen V respectively, discussed a shocking reveal and its implications for the larger universe. Kripke revealed that the finale of Gen V season 1 will smoothly transition into season 4 of The Boys, and later, the handoff will be reciprocated to the newly renewed spinoff. Both showrunners emphasized the importance of constant communication between their respective writers' rooms. Fazekas added that while the shared elements are significant, they should not overly complicate the understanding of each show on its own. Check out their comments below:
Eric Kripke: It's not a spoiler to say that by the end of Gen V season 1, there will be a seamless handoff to season 4 of The Boys. Similarly, when we develop season 4 of The Boys, we will ensure a seamless handoff to the anticipated season 2 of Gen V. During the creation of the virus storyline, constant communication with my writers' room was crucial for understanding its impact on both shows. We needed to determine if it would be beneficial or detrimental to each storyline.
What A Contagious Supe Virus Could Mean For The Boys’ Vought International
remains at the same position as the original:Michele Fazekas emphasizes the importance of simplicity when it comes to watching Gen V and The Boys. It's not necessary to watch both shows, as they can be enjoyed separately. However, maintaining consistency and communication between the two series is always significant.
The Supes controlled by The Boys' Vought International have long been known for their entitlement, corruption, and lack of moral integrity. This has posed numerous challenges for the corporate conglomerate and its powerful PR machine. However, in recent seasons, certain Supes, notably Antony Starr's Homelander, have taken it a step further by directly challenging the authority of the company that created them. With the departure of Giancarlo Esposito's former Vought CEO Stan Edgar, his replacement Ashley Barrett seems to have become dependent on Homelander's desires throughout season 3 of The Boys.
However, there are suspicions that the company is secretly developing a virus that could be deadly specifically to individuals who have been exposed to Vought's infamous Compound V. This evidence implies that Barrett might be planning her own strategy to regain control over Homelander and all other Superheroes. In addition to creating the virus, it is probable that Vought would also aim to produce a potential cure or vaccine, using it as a means to coerce their rebellious Superheroes back into submission. Meanwhile, Supes like Starlight, portrayed by Erin Moriarty, face their own perilous consequences for their act of betrayal.
The Boys are known for incorporating real-life political and cultural events and figures into their sharp social commentary. It is conceivable that the emergence of the new Supe virus could be reminiscent of the COVID-19 pandemic and its global implications. The implementation of a Vought-led vaccination campaign to safeguard vulnerable Supes could serve as a fitting subject for the show's biting satire. The connection between the Gen V finale and the upcoming fourth season of The Boys is yet to be revealed, but it has the potential to introduce an intriguing and relevant twist for viewers.