HBO Max (now Max) has released the first teaser footage from Lanterns, the upcoming DC Studios television series based on the legendary Green Lantern Corps from DC Comics. The new footage offers compelling early visuals of the two central Lanterns - Hal Jordan and John Stewart - setting the stage for a dramatic, character‑driven story.
This first look was featured in HBO’s 2026 preview reel alongside other major titles, signaling the streamer’s commitment to expanding the DC Universe (DCU) on the small screen.
What the Trailer Reveals
The Lanterns teaser is short but impactful, hinting at both tone and character dynamics:
- Hal Jordan (played by Kyle Chandler) and John Stewart (played by Aaron Pierre) are shown together in an unexpected road sequence, complete with a high‑stakes moment forcing Stewart to tap into his Lantern powers in an intense situation.
- The footage underlines a “buddy cop”‑style drama - a grounded detective thriller with superhero elements, centered on these Lanterns investigating a mysterious crime on Earth rather than in space.
- A glimpse of action and chemistry between the leads promises a show that balances superhero spectacle with grounded procedural storytelling.
Fans have already praised the dynamic between the two leads, noting that just a few seconds of footage convey both tension and rapport between Jordan and Stewart.
Characters & Cast
Lanterns brings key figures from DC’s Green Lantern lore to life:
- Hal Jordan - Kyle Chandler: The veteran Lantern whose confidence and daring attitude define the tone for the series.
- John Stewart - Aaron Pierre: A newer Lantern recruit whose discipline and perspective contrast with Jordan’s style.
- Guy Gardner - Nathan Fillion returns as another Corps member, following his appearance in Superman (2025).
- Sinestro - Ulrich Thomsen is confirmed as a significant antagonist in the series.
The pairing of Jordan and Stewart - two of the most recognizable Green Lanterns from comics and animation - grounds the show in both legacy and fresh storytelling opportunities.
📅 Release Window & Episodes
According to official sources and reporting:
- Lanterns is scheduled to premiere on HBO and stream on HBO Max in mid‑2026.
- The first season will consist of eight episodes, forming a tightly crafted narrative arc.
- The release has been positioned strategically after the Supergirl movie to build stronger momentum into the DCU’s overall rollout.
This timing places Lanterns as one of the most anticipated new TV series from DC, following the momentum of other high‑profile shows and films.
Final Thoughts
The Lanterns teaser offers just enough to excite longtime Green Lantern fans and newcomers alike - striking a tone that mixes gritty mystery, character drama, and superhero action. With its strong central cast, grounded premise, and place in the broader DC Universe strategy, Lanterns looks poised to be one of the standout TV series of 2026.
