The creative team behind the upcoming HBO series Lanterns is making a bold statement about their lead actor. A co-creator of the show has drawn a direct comparison between Kyle Chandler’s performance as Hal Jordan and the iconic screen presence of Hollywood legend Harrison Ford. This high praise comes as the series prepares to present a new, grounded take on the Green Lantern mythos for the DC Universe.
Fans have had mixed reactions to the casting of the 59-year-old Chandler as the classic test pilot hero, often depicted as a younger man in the comics. However, the show’s writers have crafted a specific story that calls for an experienced, weathered Hal Jordan, mentoring a newer Green Lantern. James Gunn, co-CEO of DC Studios, has publicly backed the casting choice, emphasizing that the actor’s age serves the narrative crafted by writers Chris Mundy, Damon Lindelof, and Tom King.
Why Kyle Chandler’s Casting Makes Sense for This Story
The announcement that Kyle Chandler would play Hal Jordan initially surprised some fans who expected a more traditional, younger interpretation of the character. However, insiders close to the production suggest the role was written specifically for an actor of Chandler’s age and demeanor.
James Gunn explained the decision, stating, “The truth is Chris [Mundy] and Tom [King] and Damon [Lindelof] wrote an amazing series… And the story that they wrote fit a couple of actors who were of these ages and so that’s who they cast.”. This indicates that Hal Jordan’s experience and legacy are central themes in Lanterns. The series is described as a grounded, terrestrial mystery rather than a purely cosmic adventure. One report pitched the show as “True Detective in space,” focusing on a buddy-cop dynamic between Jordan and John Stewart (Aaron Pierre) as they investigate a murder in the American heartland.
The Harrison Ford Comparison and Fan Reactions
The comparison of Kyle Chandler to Harrison Ford speaks to the specific qualities the creators see in his performance. Ford is renowned for playing rugged, charismatic, and believably world-weary heroes—archetypes that seem to align with this interpretation of Hal Jordan. While the exact source of the quote “He fit it so perfectly” is not detailed in available reports, the sentiment underscores a belief that Chandler embodies a classic, timeless heroism.
Fan reactions to the casting and the comparison have been split. Some supporters agree with the assessment, pointing to Chandler’s acclaimed work in Friday Night Lights and other roles as proof he can deliver the required gravitas and reliability. One entertainment writer noted Chandler has “that classic movie star look” and called him “freaking perfect” for a grizzled, no-nonsense Hal Jordan.
Other fans expressed disappointment, hoping for a younger Hal Jordan who would lead the franchise for years. Others are excited that the focus may shift to John Stewart as the primary Green Lantern moving forward in the DC Universe. Gunn addressed the divided opinions with his characteristic humor, joking, “Wait a second, comic book fans had an opinion on casting. What are you talking about!?”.
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Casting and Story Details
Kyle Chandler was not the first choice for the role. Previously, the part was offered to Josh Brolin, who passed on the project. Chandler’s casting continues a trend of the actor being linked to major comic book roles; he was reportedly once considered for a part in the Deadpool films before landing in the DC Universe.
The series, titled Lanterns, is a core part of James Gunn’s planned DC Studios slate. Gunn confirmed the show’s place in the release order, stating it will arrive after Superman and Peacemaker Season 2 but before the film Supergirl: Woman of Tomorrow, which is scheduled for June 26, 2026. This places the expected premiere of Lanterns in late 2025 or early 2026.
The story will team Chandler’s veteran Hal Jordan with Aaron Pierre’s John Stewart, a new recruit to the Green Lantern Corps. Together, they will be drawn into a “dark, Earth-based mystery” while investigating a murder. This approach aims to blend superhero elements with a detective thriller format.
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