The gritty superhero satire, The Boys, has taken audiences by storm with its dark humor and social commentary. But the franchise’s future might be in jeopardy. Showrunner Eric Kripke’s dream of a spin-off starring Jeffrey Dean Morgan faces a critical hurdle. While a reunion with Morgan (who previously collaborated with Kripke on Supernatural) is exciting for fans, there’s a risk of oversaturation. 

Antony Starr
Antony Starr as Homelander from ‘The Boys’ | Kripke Enterprises

Can The Boys universe maintain its freshness with yet another show?

The Boys: Spin-off Frenzy—Can the Franchise Avoid Supernova-ing?

Jeffrey Dean Morgan speaking at the 2019 San Diego Comic Con International, for "The Walking Dead", at the San Diego Convention Center in San Diego
Jeffrey Dean Morgan at the 2019 San Diego Comic Con International | Wikimedia/Gage Skidmore

The creator of The Boys, Eric Kripke, sparked a flurry of anticipation when he hinted at a possible spin-off starring Jeffrey Dean Morgan [via DEADLINE]. For an avid watcher, the concept of The Boys continuing past season 5 must sound fantastic in theory, but there’s a good chance it might backfire. While fans hope for a comeback, there’s one important issue that needs to be answered: may this expansion end up being the show’s fatal blow?

In the history of Hollywood, there have been several spin-offs that (literally) failed to live up to the legacy of their originals. Talk about Party of Five or Pretty Little Liars; these shows used cliches and stretched out their narrative a little too much, giving viewers the impression they’d seen it all before [via CBR]. A very recent example would be Bridgerton. While the first two seasons were furiously entertaining (and, might we add, hot), the third season ain’t doing much justice. 

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Needless to say, The Boys has prospered because of its biting societal criticism and gloomy humor. However, with Kripke announcing the Season 5 return, there’s a likelihood of over-saturation. What’s more, there are fans concerned that Kripke may deviate from his original five-season plan for The Boys.

The Boys
Jeffrey Dean Morgan and Karl Urban | Kripke Enterprises

The backstory of Black Noir and the Soldier Boy twist from season three was amazing, but the season finale’s reception was rather controversial. Also, take the example of the Supernatural TV series that aired longer than planned. Well, it did lose audience appeal and irritate fans, because of the overtly strung-out, monotonous story. 

But again, there’s more to the story than meets the eye. Angel from Buffy the Vampire Slayer and Frasier from Cheers are two excellent examples of spin-offs that have succeeded on their own. That said, a Jeffrey Dean Morgan spin-off ultimately depends on having a solid narrative and a distinct vision.

Kripke needs to steer clear of the traps of formulaic narrative and make sure that the new show enhances rather than overshadows The Boys. Is this possible spin-off the start of a superhero supernova, or can the brand continue its rapid ascent? Time will tell.

Fans’ Reaction to a Jeffrey Dean Morgan Spin-off

Eric Kripke – Comic-Con 2010 – "Supernatural" Panel
Eric Kripke at Comic-Con 2010 – “Supernatural” Panel | Wikimedia/vagueonthehow

On June 11, Kripke officially announced that The Boys’ commissioned fifth season will conclude the show. He stated in an article on X that, 

Season 5 will be the Final Season! Always my plan, I just had to be cagey till I got the final OK from Vought. Thrilled to bring the story to a gory, epic, moist climax. Watch Season 4 in 2 DAYS, cause the end has begun!

Social media users have been reacting to the news, expressing their disappointment and gratitude that it’s being allowed to conclude on its own terms.

While The Boys’ creator, Eric Kripke, did tease a Jeffrey Dean Morgan spin-off, fans were both excited and worried. History is littered with good ol’ spin-offs that tarnish originals. With the fifth season on the edge of release, fans are wondering if the makers will be able to avoid oversaturation and maintain its quality. 

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Watch The Boys on Amazon Prime Video today!

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