The Hero resolves the current WordPress Featured Image dynamically, but the content portion of the Hero does not depend on an image being present.

With a Featured Image

The image becomes the hero visual according to the widget’s configured presentation.

Without a Featured Image

The Hero can remain usable without an image. This is useful for optional-media content types or when a template must never disappear merely because one page lacks a Featured Image.

Fallback design

When you use a fallback image or a text-only state, test that state intentionally so contrast, spacing and height remain appropriate.