HBO’s upcoming DC series “Lanterns” has cast Emmy winner Kyle Chandler as Hal Jordan, a prominent member of the Green Lantern Corps. Chandler, known for his role in “Friday Night Lights,” is taking on his first series role since the 2022 Showtime drama “Super Pumped.”
The series received a straight-to-series order in June after extensive development and is being created by Chris Mundy (“Ozark”), Damon Lindelof (“Watchmen,” “Lost”), and Eisner Award-winning comic writer Tom King. Mundy will serve as the showrunner and the trio will co-write and executive produce the project.
Currently in the casting phase and hiring directors, “Lanterns” is set to begin filming in Atlanta from January to June. The show aims for a tone reminiscent of “True Detective,” with the narrative focusing on Jordan mentoring a younger Lantern, John Stewart, who was historically one of DC’s first Black superheroes. The plot revolves around their investigation of a murder on Earth that carries significant consequences. Producers are seeking a fresh-faced actor to play opposite Chandler’s established character.
Initially, DC was interested in securing a big-name actor for the role of Jordan and had discussions with Josh Brolin, who later declined the offer. Speculative reports suggested actors like Chris Pine and Ewan McGregor were also in the running, but these turned out to be unsubstantiated.
Chandler gained fame for his acclaimed portrayal of Coach Eric Taylor in “Friday Night Lights,” which aired on NBC from 2006 to 2011. He later worked on the Netflix thriller “Bloodline,” receiving two Emmy nominations. His recent film credits include roles in “Godzilla: King of the Monsters” and “Godzilla vs. Kong,” along with Damien Chazelle’s biopic “First Man.”
Chandler is represented by Gersh and Brillstein Entertainment Partners.