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If you're not up to date with Gen V, don't worry. The Boys showrunner Eric Kripke has assured viewers that it's not essential to watch the spin-off before diving into the final season of the original show next month.
"Gen V is not required viewing," Kripke told SFX magazine – although it's true that watching the spin-off will give you extra context about certain characters. For example, Sister Sage, who's "heartbroken" in The Boys season 5 after her affair with Thomas Godolkin in Gen V season 2. "Had you watched Gen V, you would understand a little more why that is," Kripke explained.
"That’s about the level we keep it in. People should be prepared for the Gen V kids to not come in and save the season. We’ve been following The Boys for five years, and it’s time to bring that story to a head. I’m not here to make some crazy Marvel multiverse. I want to end that story well."
The college-set spin-off has slotted fairly effortlessly into the Vought-verse, with each of the two seasons taking place between the last three seasons of The Boys. Still, there's just about enough distance between the two shows, despite the crossovers, to enjoy one without having seen the other.
Kripke's comments are interesting, though, because they seemingly dispel the fan theory that Gen V's Marie Moreau will be the one to kill Homelander. It makes sense, though – despite her ultra-deadly blood-bending powers, Marie is still young and lacks the control of more experienced Supes… like Homelander. The fate of the Seven's leader is still all to play for, then.
The Boys season 5 debuts on Prime Video on April 8. In the meantime, check out our guide to the other best new TV shows still to come in 2026.
