The new DC Universe may have only just begun, but the franchise could already be preparing for one of its first shocking losses. After years of anticipation, James Gunn’s rebooted superhero universe is finally taking shape with three major projects already released.
However, a new update surrounding HBO’s ‘Lanterns‘ series might have revealed that the DCU’s very first major hero death could happen sooner than expected. Additionally, it may also involve one of DC’s most beloved icons, Hal Jordan, the original Green Lantern.
The DCU’s ‘Lanterns’ Update Hints At A Major Death
The ‘Lanterns’ series has been one of the most anticipated entries in the DCU’s Chapter 1: Gods and Monsters. From the moment James Gunn and Peter Safran announced the project, fans were excited to finally see the Green Lantern Corps return to live-action after years of absence from the big screen. However, now, whispers surrounding the show’s direction have sparked concern and even heartbreak among DC fans.
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Following the appearances of Nathan Fillion’s Guy Gardner in ‘Superman’ and ‘Peacemaker‘ Season 2, Lanterns is set to introduce two more legendary members of the Green Lantern Corps: John Stewart and Hal Jordan. According to confirmed casting details, Aaron Pierre will play John Stewart, while Kyle Chandler will portray Hal Jordan. With Aaron being in his 30s and Kyle being in his 60s, the age difference immediately raised eyebrows.
However, a recent comment from ‘Lanterns‘ showrunner Chris Mundy has fueled intense speculation about Hal’s fate. Mundy described the HBO Max series as being “about replacement,” a cryptic but telling hint that has set the DC fandom abuzz. Given the show’s tone, many now believe that Hal Jordan will serve as a mentor or even a tragic figure whose story ends with his death, passing the mantle to John Stewart as Earth’s primary Green Lantern.
While this could theoretically mean Hal simply retires, that’s not exactly in his nature. In the comics, Hal Jordan has always been the bold, fearless hero. He is the man who never backs down, even when the odds are impossible. Killing him off in ‘Lanterns’ would mark a dramatic and emotional turning point for the DCU. Adding to the intrigue is a crucial revelation about Kyle Chandler’s contract. When his casting as Hal Jordan was first reported, The Hollywood Reporter noted that the actor’s deal did not include a movie component.
What Hal Jordan’s Death Could Mean For The DCU’s Future
If the theories prove true and ‘Lanterns’ season one ends with Hal Jordan’s death, it could mark a defining moment for the DCU’s narrative tone. Losing such a major hero early in the franchise would send a clear message: this universe isn’t afraid to surprise its audience. Hal Jordan has always represented courage, leadership, and the unbreakable willpower that defines the Green Lantern Corps. In many ways, he’s been the emotional core of DC’s cosmic mythos.
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He is a symbol of humanity’s resilience in the face of overwhelming darkness. His death, especially if portrayed as a heroic sacrifice, could serve as the perfect passing of the torch to John Stewart, positioning Pierre’s character as the new central Lantern for the Justice League era of the DCU. Such a transition would also mirror the natural generational shift Gunn and Safran seem to be building across the franchise. The DCU’s Superman, played by David Corenswet, is younger and more idealistic.
Having John Stewart inherit Hal’s mantle fits neatly into that broader narrative. It also marks the rise of a new generation. That said, many fans aren’t ready to say goodbye to Hal Jordan so soon. Losing him after just one season would be bittersweet. Still, there’s always the chance that Gunn’s DCU will leave the door open for Hal’s legacy to continue. In the meantime, ‘Lanterns’ will likely give both Chandler and Pierre a rich emotional storyline.
