The HBO original series Lanterns marks one of the most anticipated additions to the DCU lineup this year, featuring Kyle Chandler as Hal Jordan and Aaron Pierre as John Stewart. Alongside them, Nathan Fillion steps into the role of Guy Gardner, while J. Alphonse Nicholson also joins the cast, bringing fresh talent to the series. Nicholson recently spoke with Collider’s Perri Nemiroff during Sundance while promoting his film If I Go Will They Miss You. His DCU co-star Danielle Brooks—known for her role as Adebayo in Peacemaker’s first two seasons—was also present at the event.
Danielle Brooks Clarifies Her Role in Nicholson’s Casting
During the interview, Nemiroff asked Brooks whether she had influenced Nicholson’s casting in Lanterns. Brooks was quick to dismiss the notion, emphasizing Nicholson’s own talent and readiness for the role.
No. Heck no. Brother’s so talented. He didn’t need me on that one. But we did talk about it because he already knew that he was going to be doing it. Even his facial hair, he was struggling with that because he had to have it a certain way for his character in that, but nah, that was him! That was him.
While Brooks has not been officially announced as part of Lanterns, her past work in the DCU, especially in Peacemaker, suggests it wouldn’t be unexpected to see her involved with the project at some point.
Insights from J. Alphonse Nicholson on Working with James Gunn
Nemiroff also asked Nicholson about the best advice he received for engaging in a large-scale production like Lanterns, a collaborative effort between HBO and DC. Nicholson reflected on the transition from smaller independent films to a higher-budget project, particularly highlighting his experience working with James Gunn.
Oh man, that’s such a great question. You’re a great interview. You know what? You live in the moment, right? Thankfully, it all worked out that being clean-shaven worked on both projects, you know what I’m saying? I didn’t have to do too much hair and makeup. We had a conversation about what it’s like working with James Gunn, and the levels and the complexity. So being on an HBO set, being on an independent set, but also being able to do the same level of work, different budgets, but same level of work, was really amazing for me. So, not only can I not wait for people to see Lanterns, but I’m really excited for audiences to see If I Go Will They Miss Me. And yeah, DC? Come on. That’s really dope.
About ‘If I Go Will They Miss Me’: Nicholson’s Independent Film
Nicholson stars in If I Go Will They Miss Me alongside Kameron J. Meadows, Kevin Adekunkle, Bre-Z, J.J. Boone, Myles Bullock, and Danielle Brooks. The film explores the story of a young boy experiencing ghostly visions of other boys from his neighborhood while struggling with his distant father. These supernatural experiences reveal deeper ties rooted in their shared cultural history. Written and directed by Walter Thompson-Hernandez, the film has not yet been given a worldwide release date.
Main Cast of Lanterns Herald New Beginnings for the DCU
Lanterns features an ensemble led by Kyle Chandler portraying Hal Jordan and Aaron Pierre as John Stewart, two iconic Green Lantern Corps members. Nathan Fillion takes on the role of Guy Gardner, rounding out key characters from the comic universe. J. Alphonse Nicholson’s role adds to the fresh dynamics as the series aims to reinvigorate DC’s storytelling under James Gunn’s guidance.
Looking Ahead: Audience Expectations for Lanterns and the DCU
Lanterns stands as a pivotal project within the ongoing reimagination of the DC Universe. With James Gunn’s creative leadership and a talented cast including Nicholson, Brooks, Chandler, and Pierre, the series promises fresh energy and complexity. Nicholson’s enthusiasm for both Lanterns and If I Go Will They Miss Me hints at the expansive potential for his career and the burgeoning universe he is part of.
As audiences await Lanterns’ release, the show’s combination of well-known characters and emerging talent under HBO’s banner signals a promising new chapter for the DCU, one that could redefine the superhero genre for years to come.
