Becoming Homelander: Embrace the Power and Complexity

Homelander, played by Anthony Starr, is the main antagonist of the show “The Boys”, being the leader of the superhero group, The Seven, in the fictional universe.

On the surface, Homelander is the most cookie-cutter stereotypical superhero one can imagine. Movie star good looks and a bright smile, Homelander seems to be an American hero, embodying the nation’s values with his sincerity and modesty. He is strong, tall, chiseled and visually the epitome of what is considered a superhero.

However, just beneath this thin veil lies Homelander’s dark, twisted and sadistic mental state. His visage of being the embodiment of all things good is only a facade to his inner evil. He is narcissistic, and arrogant and considers himself above plain humans, resorting to violence, manipulation, torture and even murder to keep power to himself and to protect his public image. 

Homelander possesses a number of superhuman abilities: 

• Superhuman strength: One of Homelander’s primary powers, he is stated to be the strongest man in the world. This power was enough to even take down the combined might of his father Soldier Boy and his nemesis, Billy Butcher.
• Heat vision: Homelander can use his eyes to shoot red energy beams that are strong enough to even cut through a plane. This allows him to cut through flesh and bone with ease.

His other powers include superhuman hearing, speed, stamina, durability, smell and regenerative Healing.

If there’s one word to describe Homelander, it would ironically be diabolical, an expression earmarked to his archnemesis Billy.

But despite this outer charisma, confidence and charm and his inner evil, Homelander is in fact deeply insecure, having had a childhood that has him crave validation and adoration from people, particularly from people of authority in Vought. This is most apparent in his unsettling relationship with the former Senior Vice President of Vought, Madelyn Stilwell. 

It is perhaps this stark contrast that makes him such an intriguing character.
Homelander’s personality is an intriguing combination of charisma, manipulation, insecurity and narcissism. Possessing a magnetic personality that draws people to him, Homelander believes that he is better than any other, be it humans or superheroes. The vanity and self-doubt also result in acts of sadism and violence. He is one of the most enthralling and morally ambiguous characters in the entire series.

Channeling Homelander: Balancing Charisma and Menace

• Portray duality of emotions: Like Homelander, you must be able to switch your personality from a smiling American hero to a psychopath within a second.
• Show Intimidation: Homelander’s physical stature alone is imposing enough but when paired with his unshaken confidence, he is sure to be the most dangerous man in the room when he walks in.
• Charm: Shoulders back, head held high and a bright flashing smile are key to portraying Homelander. As an ideal patriotic hero, you should be able to win over anyone with your charisma.

Perfecting Homelander’s Look: Key Pieces and Styling Tips

Homelander’s outfit in ‘The Boys’ is a contemporary take on the classic superhero costume. Portraying valor and patriotism, his outfit is a fitting bodysuit with a combination of the three colors visible on the American flag: Red, Blue and White. The bodysuit highlights muscular strength and his superhuman abilities. 

If you’re ever looking to cosplay Homelander, you can find the entire outfit here:

• Homelander Costume (1)
• Homelander Costume (2)
• Homelander Costume (3)
• Homelander Costume (4)
• Homelander Costume (5)
• Homelander Costume (6)

Dressing up as Homelander will give you an opportunity to show your creativity, experiment with the character and make it your own. Pay homage to ‘The Boys’ and to one of its most memorable characters – Homelander!

Ofcourse, you don’t have to thank us for helping you out with the costume, because as Homelander would say,

“You guys are the real heroes; we are just glad we can help.”

– Homelander