The DC Universe franchise has concluded its 2025 slate following the release of James Gunn‘s Superman film and the end of Peacemaker season 2 on HBO Max. However, the reboot’s Chapter 1: Gods and Monsters lineup continues expanding, now gearing up to introduce the Green Lantern Corps into the DCU narrative. The upcoming Lanterns series is positioned to deepen the franchise’s exploration of its iconic heroes using the James Gunn DCU Lanterns project.
First Glimpse at Lanterns Confirmed by James Gunn
The Lanterns TV show, which has completed production, is expected to shine a spotlight on notable Green Lantern characters John Stewart and Hal Jordan. When asked by BobaTalks about the possibility of a sneak peek, James Gunn, co-CEO of DC Studios, revealed that he has already seen a preview of the series. Despite this, he remains uncertain about when HBO plans to release it publicly, noting the network’s distinct marketing approach compared to films.
“I think at least where it is now. But I have no clue…when that’s planned to be shown. With HBO, the marketing is so different than film.” – James Gunn, DC Studios co-CEO
Story and Cast Details Highlight Lanterns’ Direction
Lanterns centers on Hal Jordan, a seasoned Green Lantern, and John Stewart, who embarks on his journey within the show’s storyline. Aaron Pierre portrays John Stewart, while Kyle Chandler takes on the role of Hal Jordan. Though Hal Jordan appeared previously in the 2011 Green Lantern movie starring Ryan Reynolds, this series marks John Stewart’s first live-action adaptation beyond comics and animation.
Originally slated as an HBO Max original, Lanterns shifted to HBO with an eight-episode order announced on June 25, 2024. This move designates it as the first DCU television program to be featured under HBO’s banner, following Matt Reeves’ The Penguin from The Batman universe, which is set as an Elseworlds tale.
Plot Focus and Creative Team Behind Lanterns
The narrative is described as revolving around
“two intergalactic cops drawn into a dark, earth-based mystery as they investigate a murder in the American heartland.”
Chris Mundy co-created the show and fulfills the role of showrunner, while Damon Lindelof and Tom King serve as executive producers, bringing seasoned expertise to the project.
“two intergalactic cops drawn into a dark, earth-based mystery as they investigate a murder in the American heartland.” – HBO description
Villains and Returning Characters Enrich the Series
Lanterns will also introduce Sinestro, a key villain in the Emerald Knights mythology, portrayed by Ulrich Thomsen. Adding further continuity, Nathan Fillion returns as Guy Gardner, a character he first appeared as in Superman. The cast also includes Kelly Macdonald as Sheriff Kerry and Garret Dillahunt as William Macon, supporting the unfolding mystery.
Release Timeline and Anticipation
Though the series is anticipated to premiere in 2026, HBO has yet to announce an official release date. As the first DC Studios co-CEO James Gunn DCU Lanterns show produced for HBO, Lanterns represents a significant expansion of the franchise, promising to combine cosmic superhero elements with a grounded, suspenseful storyline that could redefine the Green Lantern mythos on screen.
