'The Boys': Why Amazon's decision to cut Starlight's controversial backstory was a smart move
Warning: Graphic content, this article contains mentions of sexual assault and can be triggering to some, readers’ discretion advised
LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA: When Amazon Prime Video announced the live-action adaptation of Garth Ennis and Darick Robertson's 'The Boys', some fans worried it might lose the comic's edgy humor and controversial themes.
But under showrunner Eric Kripke, 'The Boys' proved to be just as gritty, socially aware, and violent as its source material in its first two seasons. However, one storyline change, involving Starlight's introduction to The Seven, sparked debate among fans.
In 'The Boys' Season 1, Starlight, or Annie January, moves from her small-town heroics to the big leagues, joining Vought's elite team. Things take a dark turn when her colleague, The Deep, exposes himself to her and demands her to perform oral sex on him to maintain her place in The Seven.
In the original comic series, Starlight faces significant challenges and traumatic experiences that shape her character. However, Prime Video diverged from this narrative, raising questions about the motivations behind such a decision.
How was Starlight's sexual assault different in the comics from the show?
If 'The Boys' had stuck closer to the comics, the controversy surrounding Starlight's moment would have been even more intense. In the original story, the sexual assault occurs as Starlight joins The Seven, involving multiple members of the team, including Homelander.
The confrontation differs too, with Homelander and others coercing Starlight into performing sexual acts to secure her position, while in the show, The Deep adds the threat of exposing Starlight's powers if she refuses.
If 'The Boys' had stuck closer to the comics, the controversy surrounding Starlight's moment would have been even more intense. In the original story, the sexual assault occurs as Starlight joins The Seven, involving multiple members of the team, including Homelander.
Was changing Starlight's story a good move by Prime Video?
Some people didn't like the fuss about 'The Boys,' but what happened to Starlight was a big deal. It shows she's the only good person in The Seven, a group with no morals. But copying the comic's assault would've been too much. It wouldn't have added to her story and would've felt cheap.
After the assault, Starlight speaks up and gets support. The Deep faces consequences, losing his place and becoming a joke. When he tries to change, Starlight shuts him down. This helps her grow and ensures he's held accountable.
By focusing on The Deep, the show tells a better story. It lets us learn more about other characters without forgetting what happened to Starlight. It makes the show richer and gives Starlight the justice she deserves.
How did the internet react to Starlight's controversial story being altered?
Amazon's decision to alter Starlight's backstory sparked intense debate among fans and critics. Many argued that by toning down the character's traumatic experiences, the adaptation failed to capture the essence of her journey and diluted the social commentary embedded in the original narrative.
Moreover, some viewers expressed concerns that the changes might perpetuate harmful tropes and undermine the portrayal of issues such as sexual harassment and abuse.
The decision to cut Starlight's controversial backstory also raised questions about the balance between creative freedom and responsibility in adapting sensitive subject matter.
While some argued that such alterations were necessary to appeal to a wider audience or comply with platform guidelines, others viewed it as a form of censorship that compromised artistic integrity.
Additionally, the backlash against these changes highlighted the importance of engaging with source material thoughtfully and ethically in the process of adaptation.
Erin Moriarty addresses controversial scene in 'The Boys' as Starlight
Everyone involved in 'The Boys,' including Erin Moriarty who plays Starlight, was aware of the controversy surrounding the show. Moriarty and other female writers wanted to see some version of the comic's storyline adapted.
Speaking to Huffington Post, Moriarty said they wanted to depict sexual abuse in a way that empowered women, showing how they can overcome such experiences and condemn the abusers.
While Starlight in the comics also stands up for herself, the show's changes allowed her to confront her trauma powerfully while still acknowledging its impact. Instead of hiding, Starlight shares her story and exposes the abuse.
The show continues to explore how this experience shapes Starlight's actions and her role in The Seven, while also acknowledging the pain it caused her. This is likely to continue in 'The Boys' Season 4.
While adaptations often necessitate changes to suit the constraints and expectations of a new format, it is crucial to approach sensitive subjects with sensitivity and respect.
Ultimately, the debate surrounding Starlight's character serves as a reminder of the power of storytelling to provoke discussion and reflection on issues that resonate with audiences.
'The Boys' Season 4 trailer
'The Boys' Season 4 premieres on Prime Video on Thursday, June 13