When considering the immense success of the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU), it seemed unlikely that a small-screen superhero series like The Boys would be able to compete. However, after three seasons and two spin-offs, The Boys is well on its way to challenging the cinematic juggernaut. The latest spin-off series, Gen V, has received an overwhelming response from both new and old fans, revealing the true potential of the franchise.

The credit for this achievement goes to showrunner Eric Kripke and his talent for storytelling. However, it was Jensen Ackles and his show Supernatural that gave Kripke the confidence to continue expanding the story. The success of The Boys is a breakthrough in the superhero genre that rivals the hype and success of the MCU.

This success has encouraged the creators to further explore this universe.

It was Kripke's experience on Supernatural that played a crucial role in the development of Gen V. In an interview with Inverse, Kripke discussed his contributions to the show and his past work with Ackles. Initially, Supernatural was expected to be a short-lived series, lasting no more than five seasons. However, it went on for an impressive 15 seasons from 2005 to 2020. This unexpected longevity made Kripke realize that there is no point in predicting the lifespan of a franchise. It is through hindsight that one truly understands the potential of a show. Kripke's changed outlook on his projects has allowed for the creation of successful spin-offs like Gen V.

The Boys stands out from other superhero shows due to its departure from the conventional depiction of superheroes in popular culture. Rather than portraying selfless and flawless characters, The Boys explores the dark and gritty reality of the world.

The supes, instead of being paragons of good, have flaws that make them a threat to society. This unique narrative has resonated with audiences and contributed to the series' success. The Boys continues to gain traction, with its spin-off series Gen V streaming on Prime Video. The success of the show can be attributed to its fresh take on the superhero genre, offering a departure from the traditional portrayal of superheroes. With Kripke's newfound confidence in continuing a franchise and the support of a dedicated fanbase, The Boys franchise is poised for even more success in the future.