Throughout The Boys series, Billy Butcher is known for his brutal methods and willingness to kill both humans and supes alike. However, one of his most significant kills happened off-screen, revealed only recently in The Boys Omnibus #5. The revelation, confirmed by series artist Russ Braun, sheds light on a pivotal moment in the series involving the founder of The Boys, Greg Mallory.
Background on Greg Mallory
Greg Mallory, a World War II veteran, played a crucial role in recruiting Billy Butcher and assembling The Boys, a covert task force aimed at keeping supes in line and out of the military’s control. After Mallory’s grandchildren were murdered by Lamplighter, he retired from active duty and entrusted Butcher with leading The Boys.
The Unseen Murder
As The Boys comic series progressed, Butcher’s descent into darkness became evident, with his actions becoming increasingly unhinged. In a pivotal moment, Hughie Campbell, another member of The Boys, reaches out to Mallory for guidance. Mallory shares crucial information with Hughie, ultimately helping him prevent Butcher’s genocidal plan against all supes. However, after this encounter, Mallory disappears, leaving his fate uncertain.
Confirmation of Mallory’s Fate
In the backmatter of The Boys Omnibus #5, Russ Braun confirms Mallory’s demise, stating that Butcher killed him “off camera.” This revelation closes the chapter on Mallory’s character, providing clarity to his fate and the series’ narrative.
Significance of Mallory’s Death
Mallory’s murder by Butcher carries both metaphorical and personal significance within The Boys series. It solidifies Hughie Campbell as the last surviving member of The Boys, adding weight to his role in shaping the task force’s future. Additionally, Mallory’s death serves as a form of catharsis for Butcher, allowing him to release pent-up aggression and resentment.
The revelation of Mallory’s murder adds a new layer of complexity to The Boys’ narrative, highlighting the consequences of Butcher’s actions and the toll they take on those around him. As the series continues to explore themes of power, corruption, and morality, Mallory’s death serves as a pivotal moment in the evolution of its characters and storyline.
FAQ
Who is Greg Mallory in The Boys series?
Greg Mallory is the founder of The Boys, an elite task force dedicated to keeping superpowered individuals, known as “supes,” in check. He recruits Billy Butcher and others to join the team.
How does Butcher kill Greg Mallory?
In The Boys Omnibus #5, it’s revealed that Butcher secretly killed Mallory “off camera.” The exact method of Mallory’s murder is not depicted in the series.
Why does Butcher kill Mallory?
Butcher’s increasingly unhinged behavior leads him to murder Mallory. Despite Mallory’s integral role in preventing Butcher’s genocidal attack against supes, Butcher ultimately sees Mallory as an obstacle to his plans and eliminates him.
Was it previously unclear whether Mallory survived Butcher’s wrath?
Yes, before artist Russ Braun confirmed Mallory’s death in The Boys Omnibus backmatter, it was plausible that Mallory escaped Butcher’s wrath. This confirmation clarifies Mallory’s fate.
Who is the last surviving member of The Boys after Mallory’s murder?
Hughie Campbell is revealed to be the last surviving member of The Boys after Mallory’s death. This adds weight to the series finale, as Hughie takes over the task force and represents a new chapter in the fight against corrupt supes.
What significance does Mallory’s death hold for Butcher and the series as a whole?
Mallory’s death serves as a form of catharsis for Butcher, allowing him to release pent-up aggression and resentment. Additionally, the confirmation of Mallory’s death adds metaphoric and personal significance to the overarching narrative of The Boys.