Despite portraying the inherently evil version of Superman, known as Homelander, who is recognized as the most powerful individual on the planet in The Boys, Antony Starr shared his perspective on why he considers this character to be the least formidable on the show. Starr primarily attributes Homelander's weakness to his incessant need to be adored. Throughout his upbringing, Homelander never experienced unconditional love, which results in an insatiable longing for public affection.
Starr analyzed Homelander's scene where he converses with his own reflection to explore Homelander's vulnerability. According to Starr, the mirror scene was intriguing because despite being the strongest character on the show, he has always perceived Homelander as the weakest. Starr further explained how Homelander's weakness has affected his psyche, emphasizing his longing for connection and introducing the concept of an imaginary friend that Homelander created in his childhood, which has become more distorted as his mental state deteriorated. Starr then connected Homelander's struggles to his traumatic upbringing, suggesting that beneath it all, he is simply a boy yearning for love.
The mentioned scene discussed by Starr took place in season 3 following an altercation where Homelander was targeted by Soldier Boy, Billy Butcher, and Hughie Campbell during Herogasm, leading to a near-death experience for Homelander. This moment forced Homelander to confront his own mortality, a concept he previously believed was nonexistent due to his invincibility. The near-death encounter further exacerbated Homelander's mindset, as he grappled with his desire for love while also being hunted by those who despise him and actively seek to eliminate him.
Time will reveal if season 4 will delve deeper into this matter. Homelander is acutely aware that his adversaries are inching closer to his defeat and were it not for his son Ryan unintentionally thwarting Butcher, they may have succeeded by the end of season 3. While Homelander takes solace in Ryan being back in his favor, he is now aware that time is running out to eliminate his greatest enemies before they eliminate him.
Additionally, Homelander has other pressing concerns. His public execution of a supporter of Starlight in broad daylight, witnessed by numerous civilians, could potentially result in him facing trial for his actions. Not only does this trial jeopardize Vought's future, but Homelander also comprehends the larger implication that regardless of his punishment, his supporters will remain loyal, possibly setting the stage for the deranged supe in the upcoming season.
The Boys seasons 1-3 can be streamed on Amazon Prime.
Source: The Boys|Twitter