The Boys Recap: Popularity Is Power

The Boys: Popularity is Power (A Fictional Recap) In a world obsessed with superheroes, Vought International, the evil corporation controlling these "Supes," faces a PR nightmare. The release of the Starlighters' incriminating video has tarnished the image of Homelander and The Seven.

 

 Homelander's Meltdown The episode opens with a furious Homelander (Antony Starr) ranting in Vought Tower. His approval ratings are plummeting, and the cheers he craves have been replaced by boos and jeers. This throws Homelander into a spiral, showcasing his increasing instability. 

 

 Vought's Desperate Measures Vought, desperate to salvage the situation, implements a series of ridiculous schemes. A replacement leader for The Seven is sought, with influencer and vapid celebrity Sage Grove (Susan Heyward) being the top contender – a decision that sends shivers down Ashley Barrett's (Colby Minifie) spine. The Price of Popularity Meanwhile, Starlight (Erin Moriarty) and Hughie Campbell (Jack Quaid) grapple with the aftermath of their actions. 

 

While Starlight enjoys a surge in popularity, Hughie wrestles with the guilt of releasing the video and the potential consequences. The Deep Loses Himself (Literally) The Deep (Chace Crawford), ever the comedic foil, reaches a new low. Unemployed and ostracized, he finds solace in the most unexpected place – a greasy spoon and the company of a… well-used Blooming Onion. The Boys Regroup The Boys themselves regroup, strategizing their next move against Vought. Mother's Milk (Laz Alonso) and Frenchie (Tomer Capon) offer their usual brand of dark humor, while Butcher (Karl Urban) remains focused on his singular goal – ending Homelander. A Bloody Cliffhanger The episode ends on a bloody cliffhanger, with Homelander making a brutal example of someone he believes crossed him. This act of violence leaves the audience wondering who will be next and how far Homelander will go to maintain his crumbling image. Looking Ahead With Vought scrambling, The Boys regaining their footing, and Homelander on the verge of a complete breakdown, "Popularity is Power" sets the stage for a thrilling and chaotic second half of the season.