In the cult favorite comic series “The Boys” created by Garth Ennis and Darick Robertson, the enigmatic figure of Black Noir is even more of an enigma than his television counterpart. By issue #65, we learn that he is not who we think he is; instead, Black Noir is revealed to be a clone created to serve as a check against Homelander. Noir was behind some of the grossest misdeeds attributed to Homelander, such as the sexual assault of Becca Butcher, which wrongly pushed Homelander towards a darker path. This plot point is a meta-commentary on the influence of a more “hardcore” Batman on Superman in modern comics.
Fans of “The Boys” comics might be waiting for a big twist where Black Noir removes his mask to unveil Homelander’s actor Antony Starr’s face, but showrunner Eric Kripke has previously expressed that he disapproves of the comic twist, arguing it undermines Homelander’s character. And it looks like “The Boys” season 4 is standing by Kripke’s vision.
In the first episode of season 4, titled “Department of Dirty Tricks,” the Jersey Shore-esque Black Noir doesn’t utter a word, keeping us guessing. However, after taking part in the slaying of Todd alongside the Deep as part of a plot against Starlight, he surprisingly swears aloud. Subsequently, in the second episode “Life Among the Septics,” we hear him question A-Train about the team’s habit of killing.
The character of Black Noir has been entrusted to a capable actor who assumes the identity of the iconic figure. This actor wrestles with the demands of portraying a character who is known for his silence, unable to grasp the essence of the role, and receiving little help from his allies, who hardly knew the original Black Noir. Nathan Mitchell now occupies the role of Noir full-time, and his voice is the one heard when Noir speaks. The person behind the mask in Season 3, known as Earving, was portrayed by Fritzy-Klevans Destine.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is the new actor playing Black Noir in “The Boys”?
The new Black Noir is portrayed by Nathan Mitchell.
Who played the original Black Noir in “The Boys” Season 3 when his face was revealed?
Fritzy-Klevans Destine played the original Black Noir whose face was revealed in Season 3 of “The Boys”.
Will the storyline from the comics regarding Black Noir’s true identity be followed in the show?
Showrunner Eric Kripke has indicated that “The Boys” series will not follow the comic book twist that portrays Black Noir as a clone of Homelander. So, no, it seems the storyline will be different in the show.
Why does the character Black Noir not speak?
In the original comics, Black Noir’s silent persona added to his mysterious nature. The show has continued this presentation, although with the new Black Noir, there has been a deviation where he has spoken a few lines.