‘Lanterns’: Here’s all you need to know about the upcoming superhero drama

With ‘Lanterns,’ a detective drama that is anticipated to debut in 2026, promises a more serious and grown-up version of the ‘Green Lantern’ franchise as fans await the release of ‘Superman’ (in July 2025) and ‘Peacemaker's’ return for Season 2. Given the shabby reception of the 2011 ‘Green Lantern’ film, it is anticipated that this new series will reintroduce the characters with new narratives.
Reports suggest that the studios have joined hands for this mega release, and HBO is set to start on this significant project within the DC Universe.
According to a Variety report, ‘Lanterns’ will focus on two important Green Lanterns: John Stewart and Hal Jordan. Hal Jordan, a valued Green Lantern Corps member who is nearing the end of his service, will be portrayed by veteran actor Kyle Chandler.
Chandler is well-known for his parts in ‘Argo,’ ‘Super 8,’ and ‘Friday Night Lights.’ Aaron Pierre, a rising star, plays John Stewart, a new Green Lantern learning how to work. Pierre recently became well-known for his parts in Disney's ‘Mufasa: The Lion King’ and ‘Rebel Ridge.’ Fans are familiar with John Stewart, especially because of his prominent role in animated shows like ‘Justice League’ and ‘Justice League Unlimited.’
Other well-known characters from the DC Universe return in the series. Guy Gardner, another Green Lantern, is played by Nathan Fillion, who will next be seen in ‘Superman.’ Ulrich Thomsen, a Danish actor, portrays Sinestro, a villain who was once a Green Lantern. His transformation from mentor to enemy will be reflected in the comics. Other noteworthy cast members include Garrett Dillahunt as one of the primary antagonists, William Macon; Jason Ritter as her husband; and Kelly Macdonald as Kerry, the sheriff of a small Nebraska town. Hal Jordan's potential love interest, Zoe, is played by Poorna Jagannathan.
Flashbacks will provide insight into John Stewart’s background, with actors cast to portray both his younger and older parents. This deeper exploration of character history is expected to add emotional depth to the story. The main plot revolves around a murder mystery in Nebraska, which brings Hal and John together. As they investigate, they uncover a much darker secret that connects to the larger DC Universe storyline being developed by James Gunn and Peter Safran.
‘Lanterns’ is intended to be an Earth-based, grounded series with a tone similar to ‘True Detective.’ The show's director is Chris Mundy, who has worked on ‘Ozark’ and ‘True Detective.’ Alik Sakharov, Stephen Williams, and Geeta Vasant Patel are among the other directors, while James Hawes will helm the first two episodes.
In February 2025, filming got underway, and it will run through July. The show will air on HBO and Max and is a part of DCU's Chapter 1: ‘Gods and Monsters.’ ‘Lanterns’ may mark a major shift for DC's television universe because of its dark tone, talented cast, and detective-style plot.