Neuman Still Views Stan Edgar As Her Adoptive Father (Despite Betraying Him)
Victoria Neuman's decision to free Stan Edgar in The Boys Season 4, episode 5 isn't that surprising, as he is her adoptive father — even if the two aren't on great terms after her betrayal in season 3. Now that time has passed, Neuman probably feels less resentment towards the former Vought CEO. She may even feel guilty over her involvement in his removal from the company and subsequent imprisonment. Their bond goes back pretty far, so Neuman likely still views Stan as her father figure, even though they've been apart. It takes more than a few betrayals to destroy such a connection.
Neuman is also reeling from the perceived loss of Sameer at the end of The Boys Season 4, episode 5. This could also impact her choice to free Stan. Her adoptive father comforts her while she's panicking that Sameer is missing. And once she processes the loss, it's possible she wants to rectify things with her loved ones that remain. Neuman is left vulnerable after losing Sameer, and this could push her to feel more kindly towards Stan. Of course, there's also a more methodical reason she could be keeping Giancarlo Esposito's character around.
Neuman Believes Edgar Can Help Her Bring Down Homelander
The Boys season 4, episode 5 proves Neuman has a heart, but she's still cold and strategic when it comes to her quest for Power. Her goals have become intertwined with Homelander's in The Boys Season 4, even though she detests him. Neuman needs a way to get rid of The Seven's leader if she hopes to be free of his influence, and that could contribute to her episode 5 decision. Stan is one of the few people who isn't afraid to push back against Homelander, and he may have secrets about Vought and the Supe that can bring him down.
Neuman clearly hoped to use to Supe virus to take out Homelander, just like Butcher and The Boys. Unfortunately, "Beware the Jabberwock, My Son" pumps the brakes on that idea — at least for her. Butcher is still hoping to recreate it by holding Sameer captive, but Neuman isn't privy to this plan. Needless to say, she'll be looking for another way to remove Homelander from Power. Her adoptive father could hold the key to doing so.
Neuman's Rescue Attempt Teases More Stan Edgar In The Boys Season 5
Neuman's choice to free Stan Edgar might be questionable, but his rescue means that viewers will see more of him before The Boys is through. It's possible he'll show up again in The Boys Season 4, and assuming he doesn't perish in the last few episodes, he'll almost certainly be back for The Boys season 5. The next outing will serve as the conclusion to the Amazon series, so it makes sense for Esposito's character to be involved somehow. Stan Edgar is a powerful man, and the show hasn't utilized him to his full potential.
Given his former position at Vought and rocky history with Homelander, Stan needs to play a role in The Boys' ending. Hopefully, season 5 will deliver on Stan's potential and take advantage of Esposito's talents to boot. It would be exciting to see the actor take on a more prominent role in The Boys again, especially knowing how masterfully he portrays villains.
