Frenchie's Journey of Self-Discovery: Exploring Sexuality in 'The Boys' Season 4
Hold on a minute! If you're just tuning into 'The Boys' in Season 4 and scratching your head about Frenchie's new romance with Colin, you're not alone. But is this a sudden, out-of-the-blue plot twist? Let's dive into the nuances of Frenchie's character and why this development, while perhaps surprising to some, is actually a natural extension of his established persona.
Frenchie: More Than Meets the Eye
Serge, better known as Frenchie, is the heart of Butcher's crew - a whirlwind of chaos, creativity, and hidden depths. We know him as the team's resourceful jack-of-all-trades, haunted by a checkered past and fiercely loyal to his found family. But beneath the surface of explosions and improvised weaponry lies a complex individual who defies easy categorization.
Remember Frenchie's deep connection with Kimiko? Their relationship resonated with many viewers. In Season 4, with Frenchie and Kimiko establishing a platonic yet supportive dynamic, the door opens for Frenchie to explore other aspects of his identity. Enter Colin Hauser. Their budding romance adds a new layer to Frenchie's story, but it's not the whole story.
Decoding the Hints: Frenchie's Sexuality Before Season 4
Did the writers suddenly decide to make Frenchie gay? Absolutely not! The seeds were planted long ago. Let's rewind:
- Jay and Cherie: In Season 2, we get a glimpse into Frenchie's past as a hired gun, working alongside Jay and Cherie. The show never explicitly labels their relationship, but the implications of a polyamorous dynamic are definitely there. Remember how distraught Frenchie was when Jay overdosed?
- "My Dorothy": Frenchie affectionately refers to Jay as "my Dorothy," a term of endearment that suggests a deep, intimate connection.
- The Bachelor Party: Need more evidence? Frenchie insisted on a gender-inclusive array of strippers at Mother's Milk's bachelor party. This wasn't just about being progressive; it was a reflection of his own open-mindedness.
These aren't just throwaway details; they're carefully placed breadcrumbs that build a more complete picture of Frenchie's identity. As Cherie blatantly puts it, Frenchie is "a little gay."
Colin and the Evolution of Frenchie
So, what's the significance of Colin in Season 4? He's not just a random love interest. Colin provides the first explicit same-sex relationship for the character and serves as a focal point for viewers to better understand Frenchie's bisexuality.
However, this relationship is not without its complications. Frenchie is hesitant to fully commit because of a dark secret: years ago, he was hired to kill Colin's family. This adds a layer of moral complexity to their relationship and forces Frenchie to confront his past actions.
The core point to remember? Frenchie's sexuality shouldn't require explanation. As the show portrays, characters shouldn't need to "prove" their identities to be accepted. The relationship is genuine, and complex.
Why Does This Matter?
Why is it important to have queer representation in shows like 'The Boys'? Because representation matters. Seeing characters like Frenchie embrace their full selves can be incredibly powerful for viewers who identify with his experiences. It normalizes bisexuality and challenges the notion that sexuality is a fixed and rigid concept.
It's not about ticking boxes or being politically correct; it's about reflecting the diversity of the real world in our entertainment. It's about creating characters that are authentic, relatable, and multi-dimensional.
Final Thoughts: Embrace the Complexity
So, the next time you see Frenchie on screen, remember that he's more than just a sidekick or a comic relief character. He's a complex individual with a rich history and a fluid sexuality. His relationship with Colin is just one piece of the puzzle, and it's a piece that adds depth and nuance to an already fascinating character.
The show's genuine treatment of Frenchie's journey is important to its viewers and will hopefully inspire more to embrace their full, most authentic selves. Keep watching, keep questioning, and keep embracing the beautiful mess that is human identity.