The DC Universe, managed under James Gunn‘s direction, might witness the removal of a prominent hero in 2026, signaling a major shift in the franchise’s landscape. This possible death, linked to the Green Lantern character, comes as the franchise expands with several recently released projects, including Creature Commandos, Superman, and Peacemaker season 2.
Potential Fate of a Key Green Lantern Character in the DC Universe
Following Nathan Fillion’s portrayal of Guy Gardner in Superman and Peacemaker season 2, the upcoming HBO Lanterns series will introduce two new Green Lanterns: John Stewart and Hal Jordan. Aaron Pierre, aged 31, has been cast as John Stewart, while 60-year-old Kyle Chandler plays Hal Jordan. The marked age difference, combined with recent statements from Lanterns showrunner Chris Mundy, stirs speculation about the future of Hal Jordan in the franchise. Mundy describes the show’s theme as one of replacement, suggesting that John Stewart might be set to assume Hal Jordan’s role as the franchise’s leading Green Lantern.
While this change could imply Hal Jordan stepping down voluntarily, his established character is known for persistence and resilience, making the possibility of his death in Lanterns a plausible scenario.
Details of Kyle Chandler’s Contract Fuel Theories About Hal Jordan’s Demise
Adding weight to the death theory is the nature of Kyle Chandler’s contract within the DC Universe. According to journalist Borys Kit of The Hollywood Reporter, Chandler’s deal notably excludes any film appearances. This is a striking detail considering Hal Jordan’s status as one of DC’s flagship heroes.
Even if Hal Jordan were to retire, typically iconic heroes make occasional returns, as seen with characters like Jeremy Renner’s Hawkeye. The absence of film commitments in Chandler’s contract could indicate that Hal Jordan’s story might conclude on television, possibly through death or permanent retirement.
How the DC Universe Might Progress After Hal Jordan
Should Hal Jordan’s character perish in Lanterns season 1, the logical successor is Aaron Pierre’s John Stewart, who would then become the main Green Lantern within the DC Universe. He could partner with David Corenswet’s Superman in future Justice League storylines, while Nathan Fillion’s Guy Gardner might fill the role of the seasoned veteran Green Lantern.
Although this would mean an early loss of one of the most iconic Green Lanterns, the DC comics offer other characters, such as Kyle Rayner, who remain strong candidates for live-action adaptation. Still, considering Hal Jordan’s vital role in the Green Lantern Corps mythology, many fans and creators hope for his continued presence rather than his demise.
Lanterns Series Cast Overview
The Lanterns series brings together a cast featuring Aaron Pierre as John Stewart, Kyle Chandler as Hal Jordan, Kelly Macdonald as Sheriff Kerry, and Garret Dillahunt as William Macon. This ensemble will play a pivotal role in shaping the future of the Green Lantern storyline within the DC Universe under James Gunn’s guidance.
Interesting aspect to this: Chandler does not have a movie component to his deal, according to my sources. https://t.co/tBaQEjR51Q
— Borys Kit (@Borys_Kit) September 23, 2024
