As DC Studios prepares for the production of the highly anticipated TV series Lanterns, slated to start next year, the casting process is heating up.
DC Studios and HBO’s Lanterns recently confirmed Kyle Chandler in the role of Hal Jordan, one of the Green Lanterns. The focus has now shifted to his counterpart, John Stewart, another pivotal Green Lantern character. The search has narrowed down to two promising actors.
Aaron Pierre, a UK actor known for his standout roles in M. Night Shyamalan’s Old and the Netflix action-thriller Rebel Ridge, is one of the final candidates. His performance in Rebel Ridge has been particularly well-received, sparking discussions among fans about his potential as John Stewart. Pierre’s familiarity with the DC Universe from his role as Dev-Em in Syfy’s Krypton adds to his credentials, showcasing his ability to embody a military action hero.
Competing for the role is Canadian actor Stephan James, acclaimed for his portrayal of Civil Rights leader John Lewis in Selma and as the lead in Barry Jenkins’ If Beale Street Could Talk. James’ experience in high-calibre, dramatic roles rather than traditional genre pieces makes him a distinctive choice that could align with the vision HBO, DC, and Warner Bros. have for Lanterns.
The selection process was also considering Damson Idris from FX’s Snowfall, but he has since been ruled out due to scheduling conflicts.
Lanterns is gearing up to be a cornerstone in the DC Universe’s first chapter, Gods and Monsters. The series, described by The Hollywood Reporter as having a “gritty, True Detective vibe,” focuses on an intergalactic investigation conducted on Earth. Hal Jordan is set to mentor the young and somewhat reluctant John Stewart as their case stretches beyond our planet.
Executive produced by Chris Mundy (Ozark), Damon Lindelof (Watchmen), and comic writer Tom King, the show aims to blend cosmic adventures with earthly mysteries. DC Studios head James Gunn has revealed that the plot will involve the duo uncovering an ancient horror, positioning them as “supercops on ‘Precinct Earth.'”
The eight-episode series Lanterns will be available on HBO and will also stream on Max, promising a deep dive into lesser-known facets of the Green Lantern lore.
Natalie is a big fan of anything related to movies, TV shows, games, and comics — you name it. When she’s not reading or geeking out about the latest shows on Netflix, she’s probably playing gacha and tabletop games, or daydreaming of meeting her idols.
