Corrupted Kings and Heroes: Toxic Leadership of Scar and Homelander

This project uses a qualitative media analysis to look at toxic leadership through a comparative study of two characters: Scar, villainous usurper from “The Lion King,” and Homelander, publicly revered leader of superheroes and private psychopath from “The Boys.” These characters, despite their distinct contexts, exhibit toxic leadership styles. Drawing upon Haslam et al.’s (2020) "The New Psychology of Leadership," this analysis examines the context of their rule, their manipulation of identity, and their impact on followers. Scar’s thirst for power by any means necessary demonstrates a leader who manipulates others for personal gain. Meanwhile, Homelander’s narcissism and greed for attention leads him to cultivate a strong image and support system of followers. Through comparison, this project offers insights into the various ways these toxic leaders manipulate others to gain power. This project was completed for LDRS 490: Psychology of Leadership.