HBO’s upcoming DC series “Lanterns” has cast its Hal Jordan. Emmy-winning actor Kyle Chandler is set to take on the iconic role of the Green Lantern Corps member, according to sources close to The Hollywood Reporter. This marks Chandler’s return to a series role after his performance in Showtime’s 2022 drama “Super Pumped.”
“Lanterns” received a straight-to-series order in June following several years of development. The series is being produced by Chris Mundy, known for “Ozark,” alongside Damon Lindelof of “Watchmen” and “Lost,” and Eisner Award-winning comic writer Tom King. The three are co-writing and executive producing, with Mundy acting as showrunner.
Currently, the series is in the casting and director hiring phase, with plans to begin filming in Atlanta from January to June next year.
The show promises a gritty atmosphere reminiscent of “True Detective.” It will center on Hal Jordan as he mentors a younger Lantern, John Stewart, who is notable for being among the first Black superheroes in DC history. The plot revolves around the two characters investigating a murder on Earth that has broader implications. The production is reportedly seeking a younger actor to complement Chandler’s seasoned presence.
Initially, DC aimed to cast a movie star for the role of Jordan, even engaging in talks with Josh Brolin, who eventually declined. While there were speculations about Chris Pine or Ewan McGregor being contenders, these turned out to be mere rumors.
Chandler rose to prominence through his Emmy-winning role as Coach Eric Taylor in the beloved series “Friday Night Lights,” which aired on NBC from 2006 to 2011. He later starred in Netflix’s “Bloodline,” earning two Emmy nominations, and has appeared in various films, including “Godzilla: King of the Monsters,” “Godzilla vs. Kong,” and the biopic “First Man” directed by Damien Chazelle.
Chandler is represented by Gersh and Brillstein Entertainment Partners.