Top 20 'The Boys' Characters Ranked You Won't Believe Who's #1

Despite not being the most widely recognized comic book, “The Boys” stands out for its intriguing premise. The aspect that truly captivates readers is the well-developed cast of characters and their individual battles. Lately, the comic has been garnering more attention due to Amazon’s live-action adaptation. With an abundance of characters available, one might wonder who are the most compelling figures in both the “The Boys” comic book series and television show?

To discover additional insights regarding our ranking, be sure to thoroughly read the article as it provides a concise summary of the top 20 characters from The Boys series.

20. The Deep

One significant character in The Boys series is The Deep, who is also recognized as the Master of the Seven Seas and by his genuine name, Kevin Moskowitz.

He once belonged to the Church of the Collective and The Seven, and currently embodies the characteristics of a superhero – specifically, one known for his connection with marine life and ability to breathe underwater, thereby hinting at his identity being modeled after an aquatic superhero figure.

When he was nine years old, The Deep discovered his ability for underwater empathic communication, as he started to pick up on the thoughts of various marine creatures that crossed his path, be it at a pet shop, aquarium, seashore, or even a seafood restaurant like Red Lobster.

Initially, he believed he was losing his mind, but what his mother had done was deceive him; she led him to think it was a unique talent bestowed upon him and that this was simply his natural state.

In the comics, Deep is consistently depicted wearing a diving helmet due to an ancient curse that prevents him from taking it off. Also, he chooses to part ways with The Seven and aligns himself with the Truth team instead.

Despite the intriguing concept behind the character, he tends to remain in the sidelines more often than not. The Amazon series aimed to address this issue, yet fell short, even though his personal development throughout the series proved engaging.

19. Translucent

One of the Seven members, he boasts a body composed primarily of a nearly indestructible carbon-based substance that mirrors and bends light, rendering him virtually invisible. Extreme electrical energy, gases, and asphyxiation can only temporarily incapacitate him, not outright kill him. In group discussions, he often takes on the role of the member most focused on the financial aspects of their super assignments, regularly providing insights regarding the group’s earnings.

Starlight confesses that she deeply cherishes her son. However, she conceals a less honorable side of herself – she exploits her abilities to secretly spy on women’s restrooms. She later finds out that Hugie has installed a listening device at Vought headquarters, and after trailing him, attempts to eliminate him. Butcher and the boy intervene and manage to knock Starlight unconscious instead.

After being confined in an electrically charged cage that’s further enclosed within a soundproofed zinc-covered cell to prevent Homelander from finding him, Butcher and Frenchie struggle to eliminate him until they devise a plan involving inserting plastic explosives into his body through his rectum. Eventually, Hughie uses this method to kill him when the superhuman escapes from the cell.

As an avid movie enthusiast, I can tell you this: After gathering the fragments of the Invisible Man, they were sealed in a zinc container and cast into the ocean. Eventually, Abyss discovered the chest containing not only his remains but also the Boys’ declaration of war against the Seven. Fast forward to season two, a funeral service was held, symbolizing his heroic demise while battling the El Diablo drug cartel.

18. Jack from Jupiter

Vought-American portrays him as a suspected alien character. To activate his powers, he utters a secret word, Carpo (a moon of Jupiter), making him invincible. He can fly and carry objects that don’t normally fly on missions. He left the organization following a public sex scandal involving leaked photos showing him in group activities with transvestites at Dr. Peculiar’s place.

17. Dr. Jonah Vogelbaum

In the 1930s, a German scientist named Vogelbaum sought and was granted asylum in the U.S. He was recruited by Vought-American Consolidated (later known as Vought-American) due to his invention of Compound V, which bestows individuals with superhuman abilities. To avoid Nazi Germany from developing their own super soldiers, he escaped to America. In The Boys magazine stories, Vogelbaum is frequently referenced but portrayed in a manner that differs from the other characters, not acting as effectively as they do.

16. The Lamplighter

Originally part of The Seven, this individual was delivered by them to the group known as The Boys, following instructions from Vought’s leaders after the tragic murders of Mallory’s nieces. In response, he was slain. However, he was subsequently brought back to life by Vought America and now exists in secret within a chamber of the Seven’s headquarters spaceship, existing as a brainless zombie.

The public account indicates that he temporarily left the team after a national broadcast showing his resuscitation alongside his teammates. Upon his relocation, the Patriot used him as an “example” or cautionary tale for the rest of the team, serving as a reminder to those who might disregard the importance of the Boys.

Starlight and A-Train have taken over the duty of regularly sanitizing Lamplighter’s cell due to his waste. Lamplighter’s abilities seem to originate mainly from his torch-like gadget, which allows him to fly, produce intense light, or unleash devastating energy.

After enduring the shocking impact of an airplane wing during the September 11 attacks, which not only fractured his ribs but also came close to perforating his lungs, he remarkably managed to recover and enhance his physical endurance. Post the accident, he relied on various pain-relieving medications for relief. It’s disclosed in Stillwell’s dialogue that Lamplighter was eventually discovered by the CIA following a search warrant execution at the old headquarters of the Seven.

In the TV show, instead of comics, his abilities revolve around controlling fire, a type of pyrokinetic power. Yet, he needs a source of fire himself, carrying a lighter at all times. In the premiere episode of the first season, we learn that he has stepped away from the Seven, and instead, is working in Sage Grove Psychiatric Hospital. This hospital serves as a secret lab for Compound V, where our character burns unsuccessful test subjects to minimize waste.

In their effort to uncover Stormfront’s relationship with the facility, Frenchie, Mother’s Milk, and Kimiko attempt an infiltration. However, during this operation, they come across Lamplighter, leading to a skirmish that unintentionally sparks a riot. Later, The Boys manage to rescue Lamplighter, who subsequently thwarts Stormfront from discovering their presence when he arrives at the facility afterwards.

Eight years prior, he admits to unintentionally taking Colonel Mallory’s nephews’ lives as a means to prevent blackmail, harboring resentment towards Frenchie because he didn’t intervene since he was tasked with trailing him. Later on, Lamplighter enables the group to capture him and force him out of the compound. At a later time, Lamplighter chooses to testify against Vought in the Supreme Court.

As they watched adult films together, Hughie and I stumbled upon the news that Starlight had been taken captive by Vought. Determined to save her, we set out on a mission. In order to ensure her safety, Lamplighter willingly gave himself up in exchange for Starlight’s release from her cell, effectively super-powering her.

15. A-Train

As a fervent fan, I can’t help but express my admiration for none other than A-Train, better known as Reggie Franklin in some circles. In the captivating realm of comic books, he stands out as one of the central figures. With his extraordinary speedster abilities, it’s not hard to see where the character was inspired from. Once a valued member of the Teenage Kix, he now proudly serves alongside The Seven, demonstrating time and again the depth and versatility of this remarkable character.

Under the influence of Compound V, he unintentionally killed Robin Ward, who was Hughie Campbell’s girlfriend, due to his abilities. This tragic event ultimately resulted in Hughie becoming a member of The Boys.

Originally dismissed from The Seven team, A-Train later received an invitation to rejoin them. Now, he holds the title of the quickest individual on Earth.

Beneath the glamorous exterior of a famous superhero, the heart of a dedicated mortal athlete beats strongly. He’s genuinely concerned about maintaining his position at the top because he’s aware that it’s only a matter of time before a newer, faster competitor replaces him. This is an issue that not even the world’s swiftest man can conquer.

14. Mesmerizer

A character named Charles, with telepathic abilities, mirrors Professor X in name and superhero status, but unlike him, lacks combat skills. Once starring as the lead in a detective series for children, using his powers to solve crimes, he now finds himself disgraced, jobless since his involvement in insider trading was exposed. Nowadays, much like other former Vought prodigies, Charles is reduced to making appearances at conventions.

1. He appears to possess just one remaining item – his daughter Cleo, who he hasn’t had custody of for quite some time. The Men approach him, proposing they intervene on his behalf with child welfare services, should he consent to scrutinize their thoughts about Kimiko.

2. All that remains with him is his daughter Cleo, whom he hasn’t been in charge of for years. The Gang offers to help him win back custody by speaking positively about him to social services, but they request that he first examine their feelings towards Kimiko.

Eventually, despite initial appearances, it becomes clear that Charles is primarily driven by a desire for recognition. With Cleo’s reunion seemingly on the horizon, Charles chooses to forgo seeing her once more, believing that his comeback is imminent. This decision leads him to disclose the Boys’ identities to the Seven, but this action proves fatal as Vought fails to honor their agreement, offering him neither reward nor protection. Abandoned and exposed, Charles falls prey to Butcher who, upon learning of his treachery, relentlessly hunts him down and ends his life in a violent confrontation.

13. Ryan Butcher

In the TV show, a child conceived outside of marriage between Homelender and Becca Butcher, who later became Billy Butcher’s stepson, is highlighted. At eight years old, he is the first confirmed superhero known to possess powers since birth, born as a result of Homelender’s rape of Becca Butcher.

Although Ryan shares his father’s super abilities – strength and heat vision – he bears little physical resemblance to Homelander. This is because he was raised in a nurturing household by a loving mother, providing him with warmth and tranquility, even though he grew up in isolation for protection from the psychological harm that shaped his biological father into the man he is today.

When Billy learns about himself, he initially hesitates about helping him, yet after Becca’s death and Ryan opting for him over Homelander, he decides to look after him. Realizing that he can’t personally safeguard him, he hands him over to the CIA for protection instead. Prior to parting ways, Billy imparts some final guidance and gives him a Saint Christopher medallion – the last memento of Becca he had.

12. Stan Edgar

Originally a secondary character in the comic, it’s rumored that he was one of the key figures in the corporation, with Stillwell as his mentee personally. In the TV series, this character is portrayed by Giancarlo Esposito and holds a more significant position. He remains within the company and, effectively, serves as its leader. The TV version is essentially a blend of the characters Edgar, Brewster, and the cartoonist Stillwell.

In the comic, he was just a minor character, but it’s said that he held an important role in the company. On TV, he’s played by Giancarlo Esposito and has a larger part. He’s still part of the company and acts as its boss. The TV character is a mix of three other characters from the comic.

In my humble opinion, this enigmatic figure makes a fleeting yet impactful appearance towards the finale of the initial season, extending a promotion to the formidable Stillwell. However, come the second season, he ascends from secondary character to leading player, captivating our screens and storylines alike.

11. Soldier Boy

His persona draws heavily from Captain America. Despite the challenge from Stormfront, a captivating leader who sometimes undermines him, he stands as the group’s head. He possesses superhuman strength and boasts a nearly indestructible shield. However, he can be quick-tempered and rather naive, often finding himself in questionable situations involving homoerotic acts instigated by The Patriot. His leadership is not always well-received by his teammates.

It’s believed that Butcher killed him following his capture, with the intention of extracting information from him. In the 1940s, a precursor to Soldier Boy was a member of the Vengeful Squad. However, he met his end during the war. While Soldier Boy’s original costume was more military and resembled Captain America, the current version sported a form-fitting suit and thigh-high shorts, which might have been inspired by DC Comics’ Stargirl outfit.

10. Black Noir

Black Noir serves as the superpowered ninja within The Seven, known for his silence, elusiveness, and enigmatic nature. His prowess in martial arts is equal to his colossal strength and heightened senses.

The enigmatic Black Noir, a member of The Seven, demonstrates exceptional skills as a superpowered ninja while maintaining an air of mystery due to his quiet demeanor, secretiveness, and elusiveness. His mastery of martial arts mirrors the immense power and heightened senses he possesses.

Mere whispers of his name strike fear into the hearts of wrongdoers. Beyond his training under a skilled martial arts master, little is known about this ruthless combatant.

Whatever is hidden under Black Noir’s mask is a complete mystery, which just adds to his terror.

There’s no question that BlackNoir, whoever he may be, holds an impressive amount of power within the comics. This is largely because he shares a genetic connection with Homelander.

It’s striking that, although he can be violent, Noir demonstrates a profound compassion for innocent individuals, even exhibiting great empathy towards them.

Considering all these traits, it’s fairly clear which character we’re dealing with. The character generally resembles DC’s Batman, but upon closer inspection, there are traces of another character – perhaps akin to G.I. Joe’s Snake Eyes.

9. Stormfront

Following the announcement of Translucent’s demise, Stormfront affiliated with The Seven. Initially, she presented as a rival to Homelander, but subsequently, they developed romantic feelings for each other. Known for her mastery of social media, Stormfront boasts a substantial online fanbase.

Stormfront, in disguise as a member of the team known as The Seven, covertly furthered her white supremacist ideology, contradicting her public assertions to the contrary.

Stormfront skillfully conceals her personal racist views in public settings where such expressions could lead to political backlash, given the widespread disapproval of such ideas today.

When called out for racially charged comments directed at fellow Seven member A-Train, Stormfront feigned ignorance, claiming she had a different meaning in mind instead.

Her image as a bold, stylish, and morally upright figure is merely a facade, concealing her reckless behavior, prejudiced attitudes, and harsh tendencies that are almost as extreme as Homelander’s.

Stormfront appears uninterested in the drama of being a heroic figure. Her versatile skills, such as controlling electrical energy (lightning), flying, extraordinary resilience, quick healing, and superhuman strength, however, do catch Homelander’s attention, and indeed, she manages to intrigue him.

8. Queen Maeve

Queen Maeve serves as an inspiring figure for young girls worldwide, embodying the qualities of a fearless warrior, a passionate advocate for women’s rights, a compassionate humanitarian, and holding the esteemed position as the second most influential among The Seven.

To reach those remarkable peaks, she’s had to give up certain things. Agreeing to the image demanded by Vought necessitated a release from the real world, as well as parting ways with some dear people in her life.

Initially, she was a firm idealist, but now she appears as a faint echo of her former self, tainted by disillusionment and cynicism. However, there are signs that she’s regaining some of the spirit she showed when she joined forces with The Boys to fight against Stormfront and Homelander.

Maeve possesses extraordinary power, resilience, and reaction speed, along with the capacity to leap as high as 12 feet and resistance to almost every type of physical harm. Her evidence even suggests she’s bulletproof. Given these traits, it’s difficult not to associate her with the character that served as inspiration for Wonder Woman.

Initially, Queen Maeve seems like a jaded heroine, hardened by endless torment at the hands of Homelander over time. However, she evolves into a hero whose wisdom and resilience serve as an inspiration.

Among The Seven, Queen Maeve stands out as one of the strongest and toughest super-powered members, placing her among the most influential characters on The Boys. Although often linked to Homelander’s misdeeds, Maeve demonstrates greater care for Starlight and contempt towards Vought International’s hidden wrongdoings compared to other members of The Seven.

7. Mother’s Milk

In the comic book series, M.M., also known as Marvin T., is a significant figure and an original member of the covert team, “The Boys.”

Or, for a more conversational tone:
In this comic book series, there’s a character named M.M., who’s short for Marvin T., and he’s one of the founding members of a secretive group called “The Boys.

Milk departed from Butcher and The Boys due to certain reasons. Now, he’s found an exceptional job that allows him to positively impact the lives of struggling kids. Moreover, he shares a beautiful home with Monique, who brings immense happiness into his life.

According to Butcher, he cannot prevail in the fight against Supes without Milk’s methodical and meticulous mind. Moreover, if Milk is truly truthful with himself, he fails to perceive the ongoing action.

However, he worries that Butcher’s relentless quest for victory over Homelander might put lives at risk, especially the loved ones of Milk.

Amongst the members of the Boys with a Vengeance, Milk stands out as the one who has held onto his kindness for the longest period. Milk is affectionate, nurturing, and watchful over his loved ones, despite the fact that his father tragically took his own life in an attempt to sue Vought, a decision that has left Milk with a thirst for vengeance.

Mother’s Milk, maybe more than any member of The Boys, does not develop much throughout the series.

It’s beneficial for him that his main concern is his wife discovering his job at The Boys, as after the secret is revealed, it turns out not to be a significant issue in the grand scheme of things.

6. Kimiko Miyashiro

Kimiko, also known as the Female is one of the more interesting characters in the series.

When The Boys discover a woman confined in a cage within a secure basement, they believe she is an individual in urgent need of rescue, thinking her to be a victim.

However, as The Boys delve into the enigma of The Female, they trace a path marked by blood and carnage, revealing her to be a formidable figure who may unexpectedly turn out to be their savior.

Furthermore, they’ll uncover that the mystery behind The Woman’s origin is just a piece of something greater and infinitely more dreadful than they had previously thought.

Because of the prolonged ordeal of trauma and imprisonment she experienced, this Woman could be aptly characterized as reserved, blunt, and erratic.

Initially, everyone from The Boys viewed The Female as a danger and harbored suspicions towards her, save for Frenchie who was expected to show kindness first. However, it’s Frenchie with whom she eventually starts forming a bond.

Following her departure, Frenchie gets attacked in a dark alleyway by Black Noir. In response, Kimiko steps in to protect him, showing that their bond has grown into a strong foundation of trust.

5. Frenchie

In the comic book series, one of the major characters goes by the name Frenchie, or Serge as his real name, who belongs to the vigilante group called The Boys. His moniker originates from his mixed heritage, being both French and Algerian.

As a seasoned film critic, I found myself deeply engrossed in “Butcher and The Boys,” a gripping narrative that masterfully weaves the intricate tapestry of criminal underworlds. Frenchie, undeniably, is the linchpin of this story, his versatile talents as a drug dealer and gun runner proving indispensable to the team’s success. However, Mother’s Milk, our steadfast protagonist, frequently grapples with the impulsive decisions that characterize Frenchie’s actions. This dynamic between them adds an intriguing layer of complexity to the unfolding drama.

Frenchie once worked as an assassin, and the violent acts he’s committed and the lives he’s taken have left deep emotional wounds, much like scars. However, when he stumbles upon a woman confined in a basement who is connected to a larger enigma, it reawakens his compassion for humanity within him.

Amongst The Boys, I’m the one who seems to have a unique connection with Frenchie. This peculiarity gives him an edge as one of the most intriguing characters, and his narrative arc is delved into deeply in the Amazon adaptation of the series.

Regardless of his challenging past, Frenchie is a compassionate individual who truly values the welfare of those around him. He stood out as the group’s smartest member, boasting an impressively broad range of skills.

He’s a versatile individual who has been involved in numerous unlawful deeds across different domains, such as illicit drug manufacturing, gun trafficking, burglaries, housebreaking, and deceiving law enforcement officers.

4. Starlight

Starlight, who belongs to The Seven, the illustrious team of superheroes, found herself in a predicament when her identity as an undercover agent for The Boys was revealed. Consequently, she was temporarily exiled from the group.

Annie January, the neighbor girl with extraordinary abilities, is as genuine and honest as they come. As Starlight, the Guardian of Des Moines, her lifelong dream has been to protect the world, a sentiment that some might dismiss as a catchy motto, but she genuinely believes it. When she’s selected to join The Seven, it’s the realization of every aspiration she’s ever harbored.

Upon her arrival in New York, this newcomer from the Midwest soon learns that the age-old adage rings true: it’s unwise to encounter those you admire greatly.

After the Lamplighter left The Seven, she has more recently been employed by Vought International, rising as a promising individual with extraordinary abilities.

In essence, Starlight is a local champion hailing from a humble town and brought up solely by her mother. She possesses a steadfast belief and displays remarkable electrical abilities, allowing her to both absorb and control electric energy. Furthermore, she boasts extraordinary physical strength and resilience.

Initially, Annie could have appeared as a flat character, but surprisingly, she became one of the most captivating aspects of the series. Although her bond with Hughie seemed dull during Season 2, there’s no question that she is a complex character who will likely have a substantial impact on upcoming seasons.

3. Hughie Campbell

Hughie’s life tends towards the ordinary. He’s a considerate young chap, though his job lacks excitement, and he resides at home with his father, continuing to occupy the very room that was his childhood sanctuary.

In Robin’s life, his beloved partner was the only radiant beacon. However, that tranquility was shattered when the swift superhero known as A-Train violently collided with Robin, tragically taking the life of his partner in an instant.

Hughie initially teams up with anti-superhero vigilante Billy Butcher due to a strong desire for retribution, and his world is dramatically altered when he’s thrust into the middle of a struggle against supposed superheroes. However, as events unfold, it becomes clear that these individuals are neither exceptional nor virtuous as once believed.

Transformation from an innocent teenage character into an anti-superhero sidekick might seem heartbreaking, but surprisingly, Hughie’s storyline became one of the standout aspects in “The Boys”, a testament to their exceptional writing skills.

Hughie has faced numerous extreme situations beyond what most people can endure, such as slaying a member of The Seven and getting hurled inside a whale, and his responses to these events are entirely understandable and something that an average individual might experience under similar circumstances.

Through his personal evolution, he becomes an exceptionally intriguing character, a trait that caught the attention of the producers from the Amazon series who delved deeper into it for further exploration.

2. Homelander

In simple terms, Homelander serves as the head of The Seven, while Billy Butcher, the chief of The Boys, poses as his primary opponent.

Homelander is the most powerful superhero currently living, leading The Seven, possessing a face as radiant as a silver screen icon and the power equal to a deity. He not only has the ability to fly, but also boasts incredible strength and hearing, and he can penetrate objects with his x-ray vision before obliterating them using his laser eyes.

At first glance, he seems to embody the epitome of a Boy Scout, a cherished American figure, and a devout patriot; friendly, humble, and truthful. However, just like superheroes, ordinary people also have their hidden aspects.

Homelander is generally seen as the strongest living super-agent, both respected and feared, yet mostly dreaded by almost all members of The Seven.

Among all characters in the series, Homelander stands out as the most intriguing, and his appeal is further enhanced by a compelling character development that delves profoundly into the psyche of this damaged individual, shedding light on the motivations behind his actions.

1. Billy Butcher

Billy Butcher, once part of the British elite military units, now turned into a vigilante, possesses an irresistible charm coupled with sharp intellect. He’s a born negotiator, capable of swaying nearly anyone through a smile or raw power, sometimes even employing both tactics simultaneously.

He aims to eradicate superheroes from existence, but this ambition stems primarily from his intense dislike towards one particular Super: Homelander.

Butcher is resolute on seeking retribution against Homelander, regardless of the cost. He won’t let anyone or anything hinder his pursuit.

Butcher faces a tough decision: He must decide whether to search for Becca or prioritize the Boys’ safety if it turns out she’s alive. If they eventually meet again, Butcher may be reluctant to accept her son due to his connections with Homelander and being a superhuman.

Consequently, he strikes an agreement with Edgar to ensure that the two are parted forever, allowing Billy to reunite with Becca.

Despite initially appearing as an ordinary character, the Amazon-produced show developed him into a beloved figure among fans, thanks to the deeper exploration of his personality and intriguing, bold character progression.

2025-06-03 20:48

Top 20 ‘The Boys’ Characters Ranked You Won’t Believe Who’s #1