Samuel L. Jackson Voices Hammerhead Shark in The Boys Season 5 The surprise casting of Samuel L. Jackson as a hammerhead shark in The Boys Season 5 has been hailed as a defining moment for the show’s creative team. Creator Eric Kripke described the decision as a “bucket list” achievement, emphasizing its significance in the series’ history. The character, named Xander, appears in Episode 7, which was released on May 13, 2026, as part of the season’s weekly rollout. The episode’s reveal of Jackson’s involvement kept fans guessing, as the show has long prioritized maintaining secrecy around major plot twists. Kripke’s comments from May 14, 2026, highlighted the symbolic weight of the casting. He noted that Xander’s role as an aquatic antagonist who confronts The Deep (played by Chace Crawford) represents a pivotal moment in the character’s arc. The scene blends the show’s signature dark humor with its superhero satire, and Jackson’s distinctive vocal presence adds a layer of gravitas to the absurdity. His participation also underscores the show’s willingness to integrate A-list talent for comedic effect, a trend that has become a hallmark of its storytelling. Behind the scenes, the production of Xander’s scenes involved unique technical challenges. Jackson recorded his lines opposite a tennis ball, a common practice in voice acting when live-action actors interact with animated or CGI characters. This method allowed for precise timing and physicality, ensuring the scene’s comedic timing and visual impact. The episode marks one of the few instances where The Boys has specifically enlisted high-profile voice actors to enhance humor, rather than relying on traditional dialogue-driven scenes. Jackson’s role as Xander also reflects the show’s broader evolution beyond its core ensemble cast.#samuel_l_jackson #the_boys #eric_kripke #xander #the_deep
