The Boys Appreciate Butcher's Accent
Though in season 4 the show turns its sharp wit inward, The Boys is well-known for its satire and funny takedowns of real-world events and even other series. Episode 7 of the fourth Boys season at last tackles Butcher's accent, the elephant in the room. Indeed, since the premiere of the show, it has been a running joke among viewers; now even The Deep is involved in it. Although the episode is full of action and a significant plot development—Vought's Supes against The Boys and a shapeshifter aiming at Robert Singer—the show makes sure to squeeze in some comedy as well. This time, it is at Butcher's expense—played by the very gifted Karl Urban.
The Deep Strikes a Jab
The scene opens Black Noir and The Deep approaching Butcher and Annie. Given it's Christmas, Butcher tells them he will let them "leg it right now". The Deep drops in the punchline at this point. "What, guy? I can hardly understand you; your accent is ridiculous. This is funny given most of The Deep's lines are, let me say, not very clever. This is one of those rare times he precisely strikes the mark.
It's not only a little jab at Butcher's accent; it's a full-on acknowledgement of a fact many supporters have questioned over the seasons: why does Butcher sound the way he does? It should be precisely a Cockney accent, a British accent. But it's not exactly like your typical Londoner, which leaves many wondering where Butcher's accent really originates.
The Motives behind Butcher's Accent
What then is the story with Butcher's accent? Well, it most certainly combines elements. You have Urban first of all. Playing a London East End character, he is a New Zealand actor. Even for a seasoned actor, this natural variation in accents makes it difficult to master a credible Cockney accent. It's difficult like trying to juggle on a tightrope while riding a unicycle!
You then ought to take into account Butcher's background. Though he grew up in London, he has long been living in America. This suggests that over time his accent has probably acquired some American elements. Urban aims to portray all of this in his performance, hence his blend of dialects is unusual and rather perplexing. The program notes it, and we have to give The Boys credit for being self-aware and having some fun with it.
