The forthcoming Lanterns series will focus on John Stewart, played by Aaron Pierre, and Hal Jordan, portrayed by Kyle Chandler. These characters utilize their Green Lantern rings to explore a mystery occurring on Earth. Given that the Green Lantern movie was largely based on Earth, some fans expressed concerns about the potential for the series to make similar mistakes. However, director James Hawes has assured that the show will respect the heroes’ cosmic essence.
In an interview with Collider, Hawes promised that there would be no lack of “sci-fi magic” despite its setting in Nebraska. He explained that the fantastical elements in Lanterns are part of a world where they are effortlessly accepted. Having had little prior experience with superheroes, Hawes described his new engagement with the genre as enchanting. He mentioned the thrill of anticipating certain scenes, asserting that creating Lanterns was a serious endeavor that captivated him.
Hawes further commented on the particular humor of the show, noting that it aligns with the style of his previous work on Slow Horses and Black Mirror. He praised the “electric” cast, specifically highlighting Pierre and Chandler for their “charm” and “authenticity” in their roles. He remarked that these actors are the kind of people viewers would want to join on a journey, as they deeply inhabit their characters, leaving no room for doubt about their performances.
Lanterns is expected to be released on Max and HBO sometime in 2026.