Summary
The Boys fans strongly disagree that Homelander is an anti-hero and argue that he is a terrifying villain with no redemptive qualities.
While there may be differing opinions within the fictional world, the overwhelming Twitter response unmistakably portrays Homelander as a villain, with audiences highlighting his cruel and twisted disposition. Numerous users argue that simply being a protagonist does not grant Homelander the status of an anti-hero, emphasizing his malevolent deeds and absence of redeeming attributes.
The viral Twitter post that labeled The Boys' Homelander as an "anti-hero" has sparked a passionate response from fans who argue that he is actually a terrifying villain. Anthony Starr brilliantly portrays this egotistical and maniacal supe in Prime Video's adaptation of Garth Ennis and Darick Robertson's comic series. As the leader of The Seven, a superhero team sponsored by Vought International, Homelander initially embodies the ideal image of a heroic supe. However, beneath this facade lies a narcissistic, self-centered, and cruel nature that gradually reveals itself throughout each season. While fans have been following The Boys franchise through the spin-off Gen V, a recent viral post by @vinhlegacy has prompted a lively debate about the true nature of Homelander.
The user compiled a list of images showcasing characters such as Homelander from The Boys, Miguel O'Hara from Spider-Man: Across the Spider-Verse, Deadpool, and Chris McLean from the Total Drama series. Consequently, numerous fans of The Boys expressed their disapproval in response to the tweet.
In a counter-argument, user @superboysbestie emphasized the villainous nature of Homelander throughout all three seasons of the show, claiming that he possesses no redeeming qualities.
@JorbyPLs argues that Homelander lacks any qualities that would classify him as an anti-hero.
@AlishaGrauso emphasizes that the mere fact that Homelander is a protagonist does not automatically qualify him as an anti-hero.
@NicholasPas5 passionately asserts that Homelander is unquestionably a malevolent character.
Meanwhile, @blackncomictwit expresses deep dismay over this characterization, elaborating on Homelander's tendencies as a "racist," "fascist," and perpetrator of sexual abuse.
The Boys Has Shown That Homelander Is A Villain From The Show's Beginning
: Only Deadpool, among the four listed candidates, is considered a true anti-hero, according to @DynamoSuperX. They went on to describe Chris as a "deranged psychopath" and Homelander as a "superman version of the antichrist."Despite The Boys delving into Homelander's personal struggles and traumatic origins, his initial longing for public adoration, and his limited emotional connections, the show consistently reminds viewers of his truly wicked nature. While some of his earlier villainous actions can be attributed to his loyalty to Vought (like assassinating the Mayor of Baltimore to protect the secrecy of Compound V), it becomes clear that he regards non-superpowered humans as inferior and expendable. Homelander's abandonment of the passengers on Flight 37 further reinforces his disdain for his heroic responsibilities. He will never see ordinary humans as equals and is willing to let them suffer grisly fates if they don't serve his personal or professional interests.
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As The Boys continues, Homelander's descent into darkness becomes more prominent, exposing his true nature beneath the facade of a heroic figure. The public opinion on the Supes' role in society has become polarized, with some fervently endorsing Homelander's sinister true self, while others believe in Starlight's revelations about Vought. This means that not only is Homelander a significant danger, but in the finale of The Boys season 3, he garners a devoted following who will stand by him despite his malevolence.
Read More Of The Boys Reaction To Homelander's "Anti-Hero" Post
The cruelty of Homelander in The Boys has never been hidden, as each season showcases his twisted portrayal of the Superman archetype. Despite winning over a loyal following within the show's universe, the recent outcry on Twitter confirms that audiences have no problem seeing him as a villain. As Homelander faces a trial, it is likely that even darker moments await the Supes.User @Riley_Senpai shared an image depicting Homelander utilizing his laser vision to cause an aircraft explosion, along with the remark, "This significant event took place during the inaugural episode."
In response to this tweet, User @Lunwi88 raised doubts about the user's understanding of media.
Commentator @Jtaylor0_3 argues that Homelander falls short of being an anti-hero, going as far as condemning the claim as "senseless."
User @Mustakro adds to the discussion by highlighting Homelander's lack of heroic attributes, citing his tendencies to exhibit racism and bullying behavior.
User @alex_MOInternet said that Vought Enterprises would be making a big mistake if they attempted to change Homelander's image to that of an antihero. They also expressed doubts about Chris' credibility as an anti-hero.