Producer Tom King recently confirmed that both Hal Jordan and John Stewart will have their own Green Lantern power rings from the start of the upcoming HBO series Lanterns. This directly contradicts a popular fan theory that suggested the new recruit, John Stewart, might begin the series without a ring or inherit Hal Jordan’s later in the season. King made the comments while discussing his experience visiting the set and seeing actors Kyle Chandler and Aaron Pierre in character.
The clarification comes as anticipation builds for the show, which is set to premiere on HBO in mid-2026. Lanterns will follow the veteran Green Lantern Hal Jordan and rookie John Stewart as they investigate a murder with larger implications in the American heartland. The series is a key part of the new DC Universe being developed by James Gunn and Peter Safran.
The Fan Theory: One Ring or Two?
Before King’s comments, a specific theory had gained traction among fans. Because John Stewart is portrayed as a new recruit being trained by the seasoned Hal Jordan, many speculated that he might not initially have his own power ring. The theory went a step further, suggesting that a major story point in the first season could involve Hal Jordan passing his own ring to John.
This idea was fueled by the show’s early marketing. The first official teaser for Lanterns showed the two lead characters only in civilian clothing, not in the Green Lantern’s iconic uniforms. Combined with the established mentor-student dynamic, it led some viewers to believe John’s journey to becoming a full Lantern would involve earning or receiving his ring during the story.
Official Debunk from the Set
Tom King, who is a producer and writer on the series, firmly put this theory to rest. Speaking on the We Got Issues podcast, he shared his reaction to seeing the two lead actors in full costume on set.
“I will say, it was such a trip watching Kyle and Aaron, and going up to them, and wearing their rings, and be like, ‘Oh my God, you’re a superhero, man.’ They’re like, ‘I know. It’s crazy.’”
This confirmation makes it clear that both characters are fully realized Green Lanterns when the series begins. John Stewart will have his own power ring from the outset, and the story will not focus on him waiting to receive one.
A Look at the Rings and the Show’s Style
The confirmation about the rings also gives fans a clearer picture of the show’s aesthetic. The first official look at Hal Jordan’s Green Lantern ring was released earlier, showing a design that sparked discussion. It features the classic Green Lantern symbol but on a dark, cracked band with gold accents, giving it an ancient, worn look different from sleeker versions seen in other media.
King’s reveal that both characters have their rings also hints that John Stewart’s ring might have a different design. This would fit with the established lore of the DC Universe, where rings can have unique appearances for different Lanterns.
The show is described as a grounded, detective-style story. James Gunn has compared its tone to series like True Detective and Slow Horses, with the Green Lanterns acting as “space cops” investigating a terrestrial mystery. This is a shift from the large-scale space opera often associated with the Green Lantern Corps.
The Cast and Their Characters
The series stars Kyle Chandler as Hal Jordan, a legendary but veteran Lantern who is training his replacement. Aaron Pierre plays John Stewart, a former Marine and architect who is the new recruit.
They are joined by a strong supporting cast, including Nathan Fillion, who will reprise his role as the brash Green Lantern Guy Gardner from the 2025 Superman film. The cast also features Kelly Macdonald, Ulrich Thomsen as Sinestro, and Laura Linney in an undisclosed role.
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Release Timeline and Place in the DCU
Lanterns was originally slated for an early 2026 release but was shifted to a mid-2026 premiere on HBO. According to DC Studios co-CEO Peter Safran, the delay was to ensure the show had the right promotional lead-in and slotted correctly within the broader DC Universe schedule. It is now expected to launch in the late summer of 2026.
The series is a cornerstone of the first chapter of the new DC Universe, “Gods and Monsters”. It follows the investigation that Hal and John undertake, which is said to tie into a larger, terrifying mystery for the entire DCU. The show is designed to connect threads from other projects, potentially following events in the Supergirl movie and leading into future films.
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