'The Boys' Season 4 Explainer: Butcher's haunting visions tell a story of their own
Contains spoilers for 'The Boys'
LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA: Prime Video has recently released the first three episodes of 'The Boys' Season 4, showcasing Butcher's descent into madness as a tumor slowly grows inside him.
From the start of Episode 1, viewers observe Butcher engaging in seemingly one-sided conversations, later revealed to be with his deceased wife, Becca, whom he hallucinates.
Becca dies before 'The Boys' Season 4 begins. However, Shantel VanSanten's character returns to haunt Butcher in the new episodes, sparking questions about her presence.
Becca is a central figure in Butcher's life throughout 'The Boys', driving his deep vendetta against Homelander, rooted in their history together. Sadly, Butcher loses her again at the end of Season 2, with her dying wish for him to protect her and Homelander's son, Ryan.
Why does Butcher see Becca in his visions in 'The Boys'?
At the start of 'The Boys' Season 4, Butcher is burdened with guilt and remorse. His hallucinations of Becca serve as a constant reminder. In these new episodes, Becca acts as Butcher's moral compass, urging him to make amends and strive to be a better person before his inevitable end.
While the old Butcher might have resorted to extreme measures to protect Ryan and eliminate Homelander, the leader of 'The Boys' has evolved significantly over the series' first three seasons.
His past mistakes with Ryan weigh heavily on him as he nears death, with Becca's presence in his mind reinforcing his promise to her.
Throughout their marriage and even after her tragic death in Season 2, Becca has guided Butcher's actions. She continues to influence him profoundly in season 4, maintaining her role as his conscience and moral guide.
This ensures Shantel VanSanten's character remains integral to the storyline even after her character's death. However, there's also another reason why Butcher perceives these haunting visions in the new season.
The real reason behind Butcher's visions in 'The Boys' is his illness
While Becca has always been Butcher's guiding force and conscience in 'The Boys', the reason he sees and hears her in Season 4 is straightforward: his brain tumor.
At the end of Season 3, it's revealed that Butcher's prolonged use of Temp V has resulted in a brain tumor, drastically shortening his life expectancy. This tumor explains his hallucinations, a common symptom where individuals perceive things that aren't real, according to Business Insider.
Given Butcher's deep-seated guilt and unresolved feelings, it makes sense that his mind conjures Becca in 'The Boys' Season 4.
'The Boys' trailer
Three episodes of 'The Boys' Season 4 are streaming now on Prime Video
