#50

The Boys

Kicking off the top 50 is the Amazon Prime hit, The Boys. The Boys is one of the most graphic, shocking, envelope-pushing shows on any network.

Yet, it is not just about the shocks. It is about the characters, and that is why this show succeeds.

Homelander is one of the most complex villains on television today, a mass of insecurities and poor choices. He is also one of the most powerful beings in the Boys world.

The supes are anything but authentic in this world. They are some of the worst people but are seen by the public as heroes. Of course, a big part of that is Vaught and its propaganda crusade to make them look great.

The very first episode set the tone for the series. I’ll never forget the moment when Hughie held hands with his girlfriend on the sidewalk (she was on the street) and a blur of speed flew past, leaving Hughie with nothing but two bloody stumps of arms. That was supe A-Train and it started Hughie’s arc for that season.

Then, in season three we got the episode called “Herogasm.”

This show never skimps on the blood or gore, but does not depend on it.

Antony Starr, who plays Homelander, not receiving an Emmy nomination yet is a crime. He leads a cast filled with talented people including Karl Urban, Jack Quaid, Erin Moriarty, Jenson Ackles, Karen Fukuhara, Tomer Capone, Chase Crawford, Giancarlo Esposito, Simon Pegg, Cameron Crovetti, Jesse T. Usher, and an army of cameos and guest stars.

Season five of the show will be the final season and will drop in 2026.