LANTERNS Showrunner Says Series Is a ‘Buddy Cop’ Show with Superheroes

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With Superman and Peacemaker finished, the next major project from the DC Universe is Lanterns, coming to HBO Max. The series, inspired by the Green Lantern comics, will follow two Green Lanterns: Hal Jordan (played by Kyle Chandler) and John Stewart (Aaron Pierre). In a recent interview with Men’s Health (reported by Deadline), showrunner Chris Mundy shared more about the show. He explained that Lanterns will be as much a “buddy cop” story as a superhero series, and hinted at the potential future direction of one of the main characters through their on-screen relationship.

The core of our show explores the idea of succession—knowing when to relinquish control and allow someone new to lead. The dynamic between those giving up power and those taking it is central to the story. A key element is that John maintains his strength by remaining calm and not reacting impulsively; he understands that losing control means losing power. Ultimately, we want to show that John is secure in his position, so he doesn’t feel the need to prove himself.

The choice of the word “replacement” hints that DC Studios plans to make John Stewart the main Green Lantern for Earth. Originally debuting in 1971, John started as a substitute for Hal Jordan, stepping in when Hal needed a break. He later became the primary Green Lantern when Hal retired, and they eventually worked as partners. However, using “replacement” suggests Hal might retire again, or even meet a more permanent end – possibly even becoming a villain, like the infamous Parallax storyline from the comics.

I’m really excited to hear that Mundy plans to pull from all of John Stewart’s different comic book origins! It’s cool because when he first showed up back in 1971, he was just a regular architect. But a lot of us fell in love with him as a former Marine in the Justice League cartoon. The comics eventually brought those two ideas together, making him a Marine who became an architect. It sounds like the new series will acknowledge and show all of that history, which is awesome!

As a movie fan, I always appreciate actors who really become their characters, and Aaron Taylor-Johnson is perfect for this role. John, the character he plays, is fascinating – he’s a former Marine sniper, which means incredible discipline and focus, but he’s also an architect, a creative type. That duality is key, and it requires an actor who can portray both strength and sensitivity. Aaron, with his theater background, totally gets that physical and emotional range. We spent a lot of time discussing how John’s military background is part of him, but it doesn’t define him. He’s just as much an artist, and Aaron naturally embodies that balance of physicality and artistry, which I think is crucial for the role.

Aaron Pierre’s portrayal of John Stewart will showcase a more imaginative use of his power ring compared to Hal Jordan, who was a pilot. Because John is an architect, he’ll be able to create more complex and interesting constructs with the ring, moving beyond the simpler shapes like hammers and boxing gloves favored by Hal. According to producer Seth Mundy, the ring’s creations come from a person’s imagination and inner self, much like sculpting or painting. Pierre convincingly demonstrated John’s ability to tap into that creative potential.

Lanterns will premiere on HBO Max sometime in early 2026.

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2025-10-30 00:03