Fans of Amazon Prime Video’s The Boys are familiar with Homelander’s ruthlessness, which often leaves a trail of destruction in its wake. Among his many victims, both human and superhuman, Black Noir stands out as a particularly intriguing case.

Known for his black suit and silent demeanor, Black Noir has been a key figure in The Seven. However, his history is fraught with violence, betrayal, and tragedy. This article delves into who Black Noir is, his complex relationship with Homelander, and his mysterious reappearance in Season 4.

Black Noir: The Silent Supe of The Seven

Black Noir, the black-clad, silent super-ninja, has been a member of The Seven for decades. Initially, he fought alongside Soldier Boy, another prominent supe. This partnership ended violently when Soldier Boy brutally assaulted Black Noir, leaving him disfigured and unable to speak. This attack also reduced his mental capacity, causing him to perceive cartoon characters in his head.

Despite these challenges, Black Noir continued to serve as a loyal member of The Seven. His silent, stoic presence became a hallmark of the team, adding an air of mystery to his character. The show portrays him as a skilled combatant, often handling covert operations for Vought International.

Homelander’s Betrayal: The End of Black Noir

In Season 3, Episode 7, the series flashes back to the 1980s, revealing more about Black Noir’s past. We learn about a betrayal orchestrated by Stan Edgar, who approached Black Noir with an offer to betray Soldier Boy. This betrayal led to a brutal confrontation, during which Soldier Boy severely injured Black Noir.

This storyline reaches its climax in the Season 3 finale when Homelander confronts Black Noir. Homelander, desperate for a father figure, is enraged upon discovering that Black Noir knew Soldier Boy was his father and kept it a secret. In a fit of rage, Homelander kills Black Noir in The Seven Tower’s war room, marking a dramatic end to their complicated relationship.

The Return of Black Noir in Season 4

Season 4 of The Boys brings a surprising twist: a new version of Black Noir appears in The Seven. This new Black Noir is different from his predecessor in one significant way—he speaks. This has led to speculation that the new Black Noir might not be a supe at all but rather an actor hired by Vought to maintain appearances.

This theory gains traction when the new Black Noir mentions studying performing arts at Godolkin University. Despite his new vocal capabilities, this Black Noir has not been very active in the season’s early episodes. He has mostly appeared on stage during public events, such as the introduction of new team members Sister Sage and Firecracker, while Homelander repeatedly tells him to remain silent.

The Age and Origin of Black Noir

One of the biggest mysteries surrounding Black Noir is his age. The Boys Season 3 provides some clues, particularly in Episode 3, “Barbary Coast,” where we see Black Noir as a member of Soldier Boy’s team in the early 1980s. If he was in his mid-20s during this time, it suggests he was born in the late 1950s or early 1960s.

However, Black Noir’s healing factor, which he gained from Compound V, complicates this estimation. Supes in The Boys are not born with their powers but acquire them through injections of Compound V. This healing factor could potentially slow down his aging, making it difficult to pinpoint his exact age. The earliest he could have received Compound V would have been in the 1940s, which would place his birth year in the 1910s or 1920s.

In the original The Boys comics, Black Noir is depicted as a failed clone of Homelander. The show has deviated from this storyline, opting for a different, more mysterious backstory for the character. This divergence leaves room for further exploration in future episodes, potentially narrowing down his age range and providing more details about his past.

Conclusion: The Enigma of Black Noir

Black Noir remains one of the most enigmatic characters in The Boys. From his silent, deadly presence in The Seven to his tragic backstory and violent end at Homelander’s hands, he has left an indelible mark on the series. The introduction of a new Black Noir in Season 4 adds another layer of mystery, raising questions about his true identity and role in the team.

As The Boys continues to unfold, fans eagerly await more revelations about Black Noir. His character embodies the show’s themes of power, betrayal, and the blurred lines between heroism and villainy. Whether he’s a silent assassin or a chatty impostor, Black Noir’s presence is sure to keep viewers intrigued.

Frequently Asked Questions About Black Noir

Who is Black Noir in The Boys?
Black Noir is a member of The Seven, known for his black suit and silent demeanor. He has a complex backstory, including a violent past with Soldier Boy and a tragic end at the hands of Homelander.

Why did Homelander kill Black Noir?
Homelander killed Black Noir after discovering that he knew Soldier Boy was his father and kept it a secret. This betrayal enraged Homelander, leading to Black Noir’s death in the Season 3 finale.

Is Black Noir alive in Season 4?
Yes, a new version of Black Noir appears in Season 4. Unlike the original, this Black Noir speaks, leading to speculation that he might be an actor hired by Vought.

What is Black Noir’s origin?
Black Noir was originally a member of Soldier Boy’s team in the 1980s. He was severely injured by Soldier Boy, which left him disfigured and unable to speak. His healing factor, gained from Compound V, has slowed his aging.

How old is Black Noir?
Estimating Black Noir’s age is challenging due to his healing factor. He could have been born anytime between the 1910s and 1960s, depending on when he received Compound V. His exact age remains a mystery.