Rob Benedict is the 3rd actor to join Supernatural as Boyce, a character who promises to be a surprise addition to the series.
Since its inception, “The Boys” has revolutionized the way we view superheroes, with action, politics and satire in a boldly original way. In its fourth season, the series not only cements itself as an undisputed success, but also provides us with a bridge between the present and television showrunner Eric Kripke.
The legacy of Eric Kripke
Before becoming the mastermind behind “The Boys,” Kripke made his mark on Supernatural, a series that explored the boundaries of horror and the supernatural for fifteen seasons. This connection has not been forgotten, as seen in the inclusion of famous supernatural actors in key roles in the superhero series. Jensen Ackles and Jeffrey Dean Morgan are two examples of how Kripke is able to mix old actors with his new projects.
In addition to Eccles and Morgan, Rob Benedict joins the roster, playing Splinter in the second season episode, titled “Life Among the Septicians.” Benedict has a much darker and more comedic tone, unlike his role as God in “Supernatural.” Splinter, a character who does not appear in the original comics, was created exclusively for the series, a parody of Jamie Madrox, Marvel’s Many-Man. His ability to jump himself is not used for good, but as part of a larger, nefarious plot, illustrating the series’ recurring themes of abuse of power and corruption.
The shocking and controversial Splinter
In a twist that can only be expected from a Kripke series, Splinter engages in a graphically intense scene that challenges the boundaries of what is acceptable on television. At a Homelander support convention, he uses his own clones to promote the agenda of a far-right cult, which ends in a violent and bloody confrontation that shows the series’ brutality and dark humor.
This portrayal serves as a critique of contemporary society and not only captures the allure of anti-heroes, but also shows the complexity of the characters who, despite being morally ambiguous, are incorrigible people. Splinter’s death has a profound effect on Firecracker, another new character who steps up his career, controlling public perception and solidifying his position in the corrupt Vought conglomerate.
A combination of supernatural characters
Benedict and his transition from divinity to martiality marks the interesting development of his career. From playing a powerful and almighty god in “Supernatural” to playing Splinter, a character who has the power to leapfrog himself and isn’t afraid to use this ability to create controversy and chaos. This transition not only highlights the actor’s versatility, but also strengthens the connection between the two series, reinforcing how Kripke integrates elements from his past into his current projects.
Splinter’s ability to manipulate and manipulate situations to his advantage reflects a recurring theme in “The Boys”: the corruption of power and how it manifests itself in unexpectedly horrific ways. The showdown between Splinter and the boys culminates in a battle that is not only physically rich, but symbolically rich, highlighting the importance of the action both to himself and to the other characters involved. This complexity adds an extra layer of intrigue and depth to the series, making each episode a powerful critique of the cult of personality and the media’s impact on modern society.
A legacy of power and deception
Season 4 not only explores themes of power, corruption, and human nature, but also repeats Kripke’s ability to weave his television past into his current vision. With every episode, the series not only entertains, but also provokes, questions and leaves the audience wanting more.
“The Boys” isn’t just a show about superheroes; It’s a critical look at our society, where shades of the supernatural reverberate, adding layers of depth and continuity, redefining what it means to be a hero in the modern world, every season.