The ‘Lanterns’ finale may have looked like the end of Hal Jordan’s story, but the episode quietly planted several clues that could have huge consequences for Season 2. From Hal’s possible return to John’s mysterious connection with yellow energy, the finale seems to be setting up a much bigger story than we initially realized.
Hal Jordan’s Story May Not Be Over
Hal’s apparent death is obviously the biggest question. Sinestro’s actions could be pointing toward a comic-inspired resurrection, where Hal eventually returns in a radically different form. In the comics, Hal has transformed into pure energy and has even created a new Green Lantern ring through sheer willpower.
Related: ‘Lanterns’ Made Guy Gardner Look Weak Just To Set Up John Stewart
Then there’s Noah’s emotional reaction. His tears suggest the Manhunters may not be as completely emotionless as they appear. Noah returns the ring, accepts responsibility for Kerry killing Hal and ultimately chooses humanity over the system he served.
That could become extremely important going forward. Another intriguing clue is Hal’s mysterious friend in Guadalajara. Some viewers believe this could secretly be Oliver Queen, aka Green Arrow. Hal and Oliver have a long history in DC Comics, most famously through their road-trip adventures.
If the DCU is building toward their classic partnership, ‘Lanterns’ could have quietly introduced Oliver without making his identity obvious. And honestly, that would be a pretty great surprise.
John Stewart Is Inheriting More Than Hal’s Ring
John’s decision to adopt Earl carries more weight than it initially seems. Earl was essentially part of Hal’s family, so John’s decision feels symbolic. He’s not simply taking responsibility for Hal’s ring; he’s beginning to inherit the responsibilities Hal left behind.
In case you missed it: John Stewart Could Become One Of DCU’s Most Important Heroes After ‘Lanterns’
Then there’s perhaps the most fascinating visual detail. When John recharges his ring, both green and yellow energy appear. That could represent John’s changing relationship with fear. Rather than running from fear, John may be learning to acknowledge it and control it through his own willpower.
That’s fundamentally different from Sinestro’s philosophy. John doesn’t have to eliminate fear to become a great Green Lantern. He may have to understand it. If that’s what the finale is setting up, Hal’s death could actually be the beginning of John’s transformation, and possibly the first step toward bringing Hal back into the story. Because in the DCU, death rarely means goodbye.
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