Black Noir is back in The Boys Season 4 not because he survived, but because Vought has replaced the original character with a "whole new" version. The original Black Noir is unequivocally dead.
The Return of Black Noir Explained
Following the shocking events of Season 3, where Homelander brutally killed Black Noir, fans questioned how the silent supe could reappear. Showrunner Eric Kripke confirmed that while the original character met his end, Vought International — the powerful corporation behind The Seven — simply filled the void with a new individual to maintain the team's public image and roster.
This new iteration of Black Noir is portrayed by the same actor, Nathan Mitchell, who previously played the original. This casting choice adds a layer of continuity, while the narrative establishes that it is a completely different person under the mask. This strategic move by Vought allows them to leverage the established brand of Black Noir without needing to resurrect a genuinely deceased character.
Here's a breakdown of the key points regarding Black Noir's return:
- Original is Dead: The Black Noir seen in previous seasons, particularly the one who was a member of Payback and then The Seven, is confirmed deceased. His death was a direct consequence of Homelander's rage.
- Vought's Replacement: The corporation known for its marketing prowess and control over supes has introduced a new person into the Black Noir suit. This ensures that a crucial spot in The Seven remains filled and the public perception of the team is maintained.
- New Identity, Familiar Suit: While the actor is the same, the character beneath the mask is entirely new, likely with a different backstory and personality, even if the public persona remains consistent. This allows for fresh storylines while keeping a fan-favorite character present.
Original vs. New Black Noir
To clarify the distinction, consider the following:
| Aspect | Original Black Noir (Deceased) | New Black Noir (Season 4) |
|---|---|---|
| Status | Deceased | Active in Season 4 |
| Portrayed By | Nathan Mitchell | Nathan Mitchell |
| Identity/Backstory | Brain-damaged, violent veteran | "Whole new" character |
| Fate | Killed by Homelander | Introduced as a replacement |
| Role | Long-standing member of The Seven | New recruit filling old role |
This new approach allows The Boys to explore the implications of Vought's power and manipulation, showcasing how easily they can replace even their most iconic (and deceased) assets.
