‘The Boys’ is a show that revels in its transgressive nature, but it doesn’t always get it right. Season 4 proved that.
However, now, in its fifth season, the show does something different: it reflects and acknowledges that it made a mistake. And it’s rare to see a show like this do that.
Season 5 Sees ‘The Boys’ Owning Up to a Major Misstep
Last season’s most cringe-worthy storyline was Hughie Campbell being tricked by a shapeshifter impersonating Starlight.
What should have been a serious crime instead became complicated, particularly when the emotional aftermath appeared to blame Hughie for the crime. It didn’t feel right to the audience, and it didn’t feel right to the writers.
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Finally, in Season 5, this issue is confronted. In a scene of heightened emotions, Hughie speaks for many when he says he was the victim, and it wasn’t fair. It’s not a big apology, but it’s an acknowledgement.
The show is saying that it walked the line between shocking and insensitive, and went too far. That matters. Because it would have been easy to pretend it didn’t happen.
A Reset That Feels Earned
The reason this reset works is that it feels earned. Hughie’s anger isn’t irrational; it’s finally coming to terms with something. For a character who has often been defined by his compassion, it’s different to see him asserting himself. Meanwhile, Annie January starts to grow up, too. Her arc this season gives her more context and helps her remember what and who is important.
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When they finally reunite, there’s a sigh of relief. Things aren’t suddenly all better, but there’s understanding. And that’s enough to move forward. The relationship between Hughie and Billy has always been the heart of ‘The Boys’. Without that, the chaos and satire can feel empty. By allowing them to work through this mistake, the show fortifies its foundation in time for the final act.
No, this doesn’t undo the incident. Some people will still feel the harm was done, and that’s understandable. However, by acknowledging it rather than ignoring it, they are growing, as characters and as a show. For a series about calling out uncomfortable truths, it might be one of the most important things it has done.
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