Prime Video’s The Boys has carved a niche for itself in the superhero genre by presenting a darkly comedic take on an alternate reality where superheroes misuse their powers. Since its debut in 2019, the show has captivated audiences and critics alike, returning for a fourth season last year and recently confirming a fifth season, which will serve as the series’ finale. This edgy satire is particularly famous for its collection of morally ambiguous characters, with Antony Starr’s portrayal of Homelander stealing the spotlight as the most menacing of all.
Starr, originally from New Zealand, first gained fame through his role in the acclaimed series Outrageous Fortune, which aired from 2005 to 2010. Following this, he appeared in a variety of projects, including Rush, Tricky Business, and most recently, Guy Ritchie’s The Covenant (2023). However, the role that truly showcased his talent before The Boys was as the lead in the celebrated crime thriller Banshee, which aired on Cinemax from 2013 to 2016 and is now experiencing a resurgence in popularity on streaming platforms.
Banshee’s Resurgence on Streaming Platforms
Antony Starr’s Cinemax Show Soars on Max
Nine years after its conclusion, Banshee is enjoying a robust revival among viewers on streaming services. This gripping crime drama, creatively crafted by Jonathan Tropper and David Schickler, spanned four seasons and followed Starr’s complex character, a mysterious ex-con assuming the identity of Sheriff Lucas Hood in the fictional town of Banshee, Pennsylvania. The series garnered critical acclaim, boasting an impressive 90% critics’ score and a 92% audience score on Rotten Tomatoes.
Recent statistics from FlixPatrol indicate that as of January 14, 2025, Banshee has successfully secured a spot in the Max top 10 TV shows in the U.S., currently ranking in tenth place. This resurgence places it in the company of popular titles such as The West Wing, Hacks, and Dune: Prophecy.
| Max U.S. Top 10 Shows List (Jan. 14, 2025) | |
|---|---|
| 1 | The Pitt |
| 2 | The Sex Lives of College Girls |
| 3 | Creature Commandos |
| 4 | The Curious Case of Natalia Grace |
| 5 | Bookie |
| 6 | Dune: Prophecy |
| 7 | Shining Vale |
| 8 | Hacks |
| 9 | The West Wing |
| 10 | Banshee |
Implications of Banshee’s Streaming Revival
Why Banshee Resonates with Audiences
Upon its initial release in 2013, Banshee polarized viewers, boasting a blend of graphic violence and explicit content that might not cater to all tastes. Despite a lukewarm reception in its first season, the show found its rhythm in season two, continuing to gain momentum and acclaim in subsequent seasons. Notably, both seasons three and four achieved an exceptional 100% rating on Rotten Tomatoes.
Dubbed by some as “trashy” television, Banshee exemplifies how such programming can be artfully crafted. Each season is packed with exhilarating action sequences, unexpected narrative developments, and standout performances, particularly from Starr in his lead role. The explosion of streaming platforms has transformed the entertainment industry in various ways, often complicating viewing experiences, but it has also enabled Banshee to reach new audiences nearly a decade post-airing, showcasing the lasting impact and quality of the series.
Source: FlixPatrol
More Details: Screen Rant
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