Does Homelander Have X-Ray Vision? Why He Didn’t See Through Noir’s Mask

Many of us wondered why Homelander didn’t spot that Black Noir was his clone just by using his X-ray vision. Russell Braun, the artist from The Boys, gave us a straightforward explanation that dives into the details without getting too complex.

In The Boys Omnibus, Braun explains that even though Homelander can look through things, seeing through Black Noir’s mask to identify him as a clone wouldn’t be simple. When Homelander uses his X-ray vision, he generally sees just the skeleton, like he would with any other person. To actually see that it was his own face under Noir’s mask would require incredibly precise control over his power.

Braun asks us a question to consider: did Homelander really have the interest or the patience to scrutinize every detail under the mask? Probably not. This explanation points out more about Homelander’s character; he’s not the type to look too deeply. His lack of attention is a key part of his personality.

This revelation about Black Noir is crucial in understanding Homelander better. Throughout the series, Homelander is portrayed as reckless and not very thorough. He’s more interested in his status and power than in the potential threats around him, which fits with him missing the truth about Black Noir right under his nose.

Interestingly, Erik Kripke, the showrunner for Amazon’s adaptation of The Boys, wasn’t a big fan of this plot twist. He chose a different direction for Black Noir in the TV series, highlighting how this element from the comics was divisive even among the creators.

So, when we talk about whether it’s a plot hole that Homelander didn’t see through the mask, it’s really not about the holes in the plot but about showing us who Homelander is. He overlooks the obvious, which eventually leads to his downfall. It’s a lesson in paying attention to the details, something Homelander fails at spectacularly.

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