In true “The Boys” fashion, Episode 6, titled “Dirty Business,” masterfully blends dark humor, shocking revelations, and high-stakes drama. This episode finally confirms a major fan theory while delivering one of the series’ most twisted and entertaining installments yet.
A Major Reveal: Joe Kessler’s True Nature
The episode wastes no time in addressing the elephant in the room: Joe Kessler (Jeffrey Dean Morgan) is confirmed to be an illness-induced hallucination, much like Butcher’s (Karl Urban) previous visions of his late wife, Becca. The clues have been there all along, but “Dirty Business” cements it with a scene where Dr. Sameer Shah (Omid Abtahi), now missing a leg, calls out Butcher’s delusional state. A quick montage shows Butcher talking to empty rooms in past episodes, moments where we believed Kessler was present. This twist isn’t groundbreaking but adds depth to Butcher’s character, highlighting his deteriorating mental state.
A Night at Tek Knight’s Mansion
The bulk of the episode takes place at Tek Knight’s (Derek Wilson) mansion, which is less of a Batcave and more of a Fifty Shades hideout. The Boys’ mission to infiltrate an alt-right cocktail soirée offers a mix of levity and tension. Hughie (Jack Quaid) goes undercover as Webweaver, a junkie superhero, in a storyline ripe with comedic and cringe-worthy moments. Hughie’s awkward attempts to fit in, followed by a mortifying encounter in Tek Knight’s pervert lair, are executed with impeccable comedic timing.
Colby Minifie’s portrayal of Ashley Barrett shines as she delivers vulgar, dominant lines with volcanic confidence, making her scenes both unsettling and entertaining. When Hughie’s cover is blown, chaos ensues, leading to intense confrontations and revealing character moments.
Character Development and Conflicts
The episode excels in character development, particularly with Annie (Erin Moriarty) and Mother’s Milk (Laz Alonso). Annie’s confrontation with Firecracker (Valorie Curry) and her heartfelt apology for past wrongs add layers to her character. Meanwhile, Mother’s Milk’s panic attack after shooting Sister Sage (Susan Heyward) underscores the immense pressure he’s under, offering a stark contrast to Butcher’s hardened demeanor.
Kimiko (Karen Fukuhara) and Annie’s rescue of Hughie from Tek Knight’s sadistic plans further cement their bond and showcase their resilience. These moments are packed tightly into the main storyline, enhancing the episode’s focus and impact.
Sister Sage and Victoria Neuman Steal the Show
Toward the episode’s end, Sister Sage and Victoria Neuman (Claudia Doumit) deliver standout performances. Sister Sage’s manipulation of her Vought pawns and her eventual downfall provides both humor and tension. Victoria’s usurpation of Homelander’s (Antony Starr) grandstanding at a political rally underscores her cunning and Homelander’s vulnerability. The superhuman tyrant’s failure to assert dominance and subsequent humiliation highlight his crumbling facade.
“Dirty Business” marks a return to form for “The Boys,” balancing its trademark chaos with focused storytelling and rich character development. The episode’s singular storyline, shocking reveals, and a blend of humor and horror makes it a standout in Season 4. As the series hurtles toward its climax, fans can expect more explosive twists and compelling drama. Keep watching as “The Boys” continues to push boundaries and deliver unforgettable television.
