Why Starlight's Powers Resurfaced in the fourth season finale of The Boys?
Starlight, sometimes Annie January, loses control over her powers in The Boys season 4. She's internal conflicts and identity crisis directly relate to this loss. But her powers come back at a turning point toward the finale. Examining Starlight's relevance in the framework of The Boys' continuous fight against Homelander and Vought, this article investigates the causes behind its power comeback.
The boys season 4 Starlight's Identity Crisis
Starlight's inner struggle results from her mixed emotions about her past as a member of The Seven, a group reputed for corruption and neglect. She thus begins to doubt her own identity and her place in the superhero universe. Starlight aims to shed her superhero image, even going so far as to give up her trademark costume and go by Annie January, her actual name.
Her inner conflicts, though, transcends her ties to The Seven. Season 4 of The Boys exposes a sinister secret: Starlight bullied her childhood friends. This helps to explain Firecracker's bitterness toward her fellow Supe. Starlight regrets her behavior toward Firecracker and bears the weight of past deeds. Her abortion, a choice she might not be sorry about but has left her torn, adds to her worries.
These several inner conflicts keep Starlight from using her powers most of The Boys season 4. Still, the climax presents a turning point. Overwhelmed by her fears, Starlight tells Hughie about her inner struggle and owns her shortcomings. Hughie requires emotional comfort from her relentless love and support. Accepting her complexity helps her to face her identity crisis and, finally, recover her powers.
The Boys Season 4 Finale Starlight's Empowered Return
Starlight at last faces her inner demons and owns her flaws following the failed assassination attempt by the shapeshifter on Robert Singer. She admits her depressed thoughts and mixed emotions. Hughie's consistent love and acceptance helps Starlight to embrace her whole self. This turning point signals her acceptance and self-love as it marks the return of her powers.
The Importance of Starlight's Power Return for The Boys Season 5
Given the growing dangers Homelander and his allies present, Starlight's recovered powers are absolutely vital. Targeting people known as "Starlighters," Homelander's attacks get more intense, thus Starlight's powers are essential for defending her allies and subversing Homelander's rule. Once her inner conflicts are settled, Starlight is ready to be a powerful weapon in the battle against Homelander.
Still, Starlight probably has difficulties. The great threat homelander presents comes from his strong power and control over most of the Supes. Now scattered and weak, the boys will depend on Starlight's powers to withstand Homelander's might. The success of the struggle against Homelander depends on Starlight's capacity to gather her allies and apply her powers to guard them.
