Apart from the two popular comic book franchises Marvel and DC that have been made into cinematic universes, writer Garth Ennis and artist Darick Robertson’s independent comic universe The Boys, has also staked its claim as one of television’s biggest draws. This edgy and gritty adult series stood apart for its power-packed narratives and memorable characters including Billy Butcher and John Gillman aka the Homelander.
The Homelander played by Anthony Starr, is the main antagonist in The Boys, and is depicted as an egotistical and sadistic narcissist who serves as the extremely powerful leader of the corrupt group, The Seven. In a brilliantly visualized imaginary crossover edit by content creator Gugga Leunnam in 2020 that gave fans goosebumps, the Homelander was seen wiping out the Avengers and confronting Thanos.
Also Read: Gen V Might Have Revealed One Supe Who Can Potentially Kill Homelander
The Homelander Vs Avengers Edit Was Everything Fans Dreamt Of
Apart from seeing their favorite superheroes on screen, comic book fans are always on the lookout for exciting crossovers between characters in different universes. While these events have taken place many times within a particular franchise, content creator Gugga Leunnam gave excited viewers a sneak peek into what might have occurred if two different franchises crossed over.
In a brilliantly conceived edit, the creator featured The Boys’ chilling antagonist the Homelander, facing off against the Avengers, by intertwining scenes from Avengers: Age of Ultron and Avengers Infinity War, with The Boys season 2. In Leumann’s video (via YouTube), the Homelander enters Hawkeye’s cabin where he sees Iron Man, Captain America, Hulk, Black Widow, and Thor, and asks,
“Did I hear you say, Butcher?”
The Homelander was referring to the character Billy Butcher from The Boys, who captures the villain’s son, Ryan, in Season 2, in an attempt to bring him to safety and away from his murderous father. The antagonist then proceeds to wipe out the Avengers, which is indicated by the character covered in blood as he exits the cabin. The scene ends with the Homelander confronting Thanos and laughing maniacally at the impending battle ahead.
Apart from the excellent editing technique used in the video, fans worldwide were mesmerized by the scripting that went into the edit, which almost gave the feeling that this crossover incident actually took place. The video left viewers hanging about the outcome of the supposed battle between Thanos and The Boys villain, which added even more enigma to the content.
Anthony Starr On The Homelander And The Boys’ Success
What made The Boys stand out as a unique series, was its clever subversion of the superhero aesthetic, where the characters are not the reverential cult figures often seen in Marvel and DC movies. Instead, they are selfish and corrupt people who are managed by an evil organization called The Vought.
These dark shades were what attracted the show’s antagonist Anthony Starr into signing on for his role as the Homelander. In an interview with GQ following the stupendous success of the show, Starr spoke about his diabolical superhero character who had no moral fiber to speak of, and elaborated on how he approached this role.
“Sometimes it’s as simple as, well, what would Superman do? And do the opposite. I really love being able to turn that on its head and explore the messiness of what is arguably a more realistic take on superheroes.”
Anthony Starr’s unhinged and manic portrayal of the Homelander was one of the reasons for the unprecedented success of The Boys. The actor was grateful to the series for giving him one of his most memorable roles.
Also Read: Even The Boys Producers Agree Omni-Man Would Make Antony Starr’s Homelander His Little B**ch
