HBO’s First ‘Lanterns’ Trailer Proves Kyle Chandler Is the Perfect Hal Jordan in a Dark, Gritty DCU Reboot

After years of anticipation, HBO has officially released the first trailer for Lanterns, the upcoming Green Lantern TV series set inside James Gunn’s new DC Universe. Following a string of successful DC projects in 2025, Lanterns stands apart as the only confirmed live-action DC TV show releasing in 2026—and it now carries the responsibility of rebuilding a character the 2011 film nearly buried.

The Lanterns trailer teaser, previously limited to private press events, is now available to the public, and it delivers exactly what fans hoped for: a bold, atmospheric, and dramatically different take on the Green Lantern mythos.

A Shocking Cliffside Moment That Sets the Tone

Even though the trailer is brief—part of HBO’s 2026 lineup showcase—the footage wastes no time making a statement, in the most talked-about moment, Hal Jordan (Kyle Chandler) sends John Stewart’s car flying off a cliff, forcing the young Lantern-to-be to use the ring to save his own life.

It’s intense, daring, and immediately establishes the dynamic between the two heroes.

Hal watches from the dirt road with the authoritative calm of a veteran Lantern, while Stewart claws his way into heroism—quite literally. The scene is already going viral for its raw impact and bold character introduction.

Additional snippets reveal: a tense town hall confrontation; Hal and John investigating a mysterious event; and a moody, grounded aesthetic reminiscent of True Detective. The message is clear: this is a detective-driven, atmospheric DC series, not just another superhero CGI-fest.

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Kyle Chandler Silences All Doubts About His Casting

When HBO announced Kyle Chandler, 60, as Hal Jordan, fans were divided. Could he embody one of DC’s most iconic and charismatic heroes—traditionally portrayed as a younger, impulsive test pilot?

The trailer answers that question emphatically: yes.

Chandler brings:

• Hal’s legendary recklessness

• His sharp, instinctive leadership

• A weary, seasoned edge that fits this darker DCU

His chemistry with Aaron Pierre’s John Stewart is already evident, and their contrasting personalities promise a gripping two-Lantern dynamic that feels ripped straight from the comics.

 

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A Promising Start for DCU’s Most Important TV Series

With direction from James Hawes and writing by Chris Mundy and Damon Lindelof, Lanterns is shaping up to be a cornerstone title for DC’s television strategy. The series blends cosmic mythology with grounded detective storytelling—something no previous Green Lantern adaptation has attempted.

If the trailer is any indication, Lanterns doesn’t just redeem the franchise—it may become one of the most defining superhero shows of the decade.