First poster for "Gen V" season 2 released

The young Supes could compete against Homelander

By Jonas Reichel on 4 min reading time

Fans of "The Boys" spin-off "Gen V" can rejoice: the second season is set to be released on Prime Video later this year. To coincide with this, a first poster has been published on the official X account.

It shows the main character Marie Moreau, played by Jaz Sinclair, writing the word "Resist" on a wall in blood-red letters. Particularly interesting: familiar faces from "The Boys" universe also appear on the poster, including Homelander, Sister Sage and Black Noi. Another crossover with the parent series therefore seems very likely.

Season 1 of "Gen V" already featured a number of prominent guest appearances by Billy Butcher, Soldier Boy and Homelander. In the sequel, the young Supes from "Gen V" and the members of the "Boys" could now also find themselves in the same conflict zones – possibly as opponents of Homelander's emerging regime.

It remains to be seen whether we can expect a first trailer or even the release date on May 31. One thing is certain: "Gen V Season 2" will further expand the dark superhero world of "The Boys" – with plenty of blood and political explosiveness.

Image of GEN V Trailer (2023)

Brutal, dark, satirical: series in the style of Gen V and The Boys

Since the success of "The Boys", a new trend has established itself in the superhero genre – away from the classic good-and-evil narrative and towards cynical, socially critical and sometimes extremely brutal portrayals of power and morality. Series such as "Gen V", the spin-off of "The Boys", pick up on this tone and set new standards for an adult audience. But "Gen V" and "The Boys" are by no means the only representatives of this genre. Anyone looking for similarly dark, sarcastic and action-packed series will find exciting alternatives and additions in the following titles. And, of course, we'll also tell you where you can watch them!

Invincible (Amazon Prime Video)

This animated superhero series may seem like a classic coming-of-age story at first glance, but appearances are deceptive. "Invincible" tells the story of young Mark Grayson, who learns that his father is one of the most powerful (and dangerous) superheroes on the planet. The series offers brutal violence, surprising twists and turns and a profound examination of responsibility, manipulation and moral dilemmas. Fans of "The Boys" will love the explicit depiction and the emotional low blows.

Image of INVINCIBLE Trailer (2021)

Watchmen (HBO)

Based on the cult comic of the same name, "Watchmen" does not tell a classic superhero story, but a dark, political allegory with strong social criticism. The series is set decades after the events of the comic and tackles topics such as racism, police violence and the danger of the concentration of power. With its complex plot, profound characters and stylistically unique production, "Watchmen" is a masterpiece for anyone who expects more than just action.

Image of WATCHMEN Trailer (2019) Comic-Con

Doom Patrol (HBO Max)

"Doom Patrol" is the quirky, unconventional answer to classic superhero teams such as the "Justice League". The series tells the story of a group of outsiders with supernatural powers – each with their own trauma, quirks and inner demons. The humor is black, the themes are often surprisingly profound. Between madness and emotion, "Doom Patrol" offers a very unique view of heroism, very much in the spirit of "The Boys", only a little more surreal.

Image of DOOM PATROL Season 3 Teaser Trailer (2021)

Peacemaker (HBO Max)

After his appearance in "The Suicide Squad", Peacemaker, played by John Cena, got his own series. "Peacemaker" combines brutal action with biting humor, a good dose of social criticism and surprisingly emotional character development. The series never takes itself too seriously and yet offers more depth than initially expected – perfect for fans who like black humor and broken heroes.

Image of PEACEMAKER Trailer (2022)

Titans (Netflix/HBO Max)

While "Titans" strikes a more serious and dramatic tone, the series fits thematically well into the ranks of dark superhero formats. The teenage heroes –including Robin, Raven and Beast Boy – not only fight against external threats, but also with their own identity and dark past. The series offers intense battles, a dark atmosphere and psychological depth.

Image of TITANS Trailer (2018) Netflix

Umbrella Academy (Netflix)

Seven orphans with special abilities are adopted by an eccentric billionaire to form a superhero academy. Years later, they are at odds and deeply damaged –but they must come together to prevent the end of the world. "Umbrella Academy" convinces with a unique style, quirky humor and an emotional story. Here, too, it is less about heroism and more about personal guilt, responsibility and trauma.

Image of THE UMBRELLA ACADEMY Trailer (2019) Netflix

Why this trend works

What all these series have in common is a critical look at the superhero existence. Instead of infallible icons, the focus is on flawed, often cynical or traumatized characters. Superpowers are not a blessing, but often a curse or a tool of oppression. Violence is not glorified, but shown in all its consequences.

The success of "The Boys" and "Gen V" shows this: Audiences have had enough of slick superheroes – they want friction, ambivalence and relevance. Anyone looking for series that challenge the moral compass, pose social questions and at the same time entertain mercilessly will find plenty to choose from in these dark alternatives.

Image of THE BOYS Red Band Teaser Trailer (2019)