The upcoming HBO Max series “Lanterns” has ignited discussions regarding its costume designs, as glimpses of the new Green Lantern Corps uniforms recently emerged during an event in Brazil. With James Gunn at the helm, speculation is mounting about how the revamped costumes will fit into the legacy of the iconic superheroes, making the topic of James Gunn Green Lantern costumes a hot point among fans and observers.
New Series and Early Reactions to Costume Reveals
“Lanterns” is scheduled to debut on HBO Max in the summer of 2026, and a teaser trailer was shown to select journalists at the network’s Upfront event held in São Paulo, Brazil. Two versions of this trailer reportedly circulated, one of which offered a brief look at the Green Lantern Corps attire, modeled on characters Hal Jordan and John Stewart. Matías Lértora, a journalist familiar with the footage, noted,
“it’s based on the design of a specific comic,”
but clarified that it is “not the same.”
Amid this, speculation has intensified online, with many believing that James Gunn and the DC Studios team drew inspiration from the “Green Lantern: Earth One” comic series for the costume designs. Some fans, however, voiced concerns about the uniforms looking overly computer-generated, reminiscent of those from the 2011 film. Addressing this, Lértora reportedly denied that the suits would be fully CG like before.
Connections to the DC Universe and Possible Costume Influences
The first promotional artwork for “Lanterns” referenced “Green Lantern: Earth One,” lending weight to rumors that James Gunn might adapt those visuals for the DC Universe. In a related note, Nathan Fillion’s version of Guy Gardner in “Superman” was seen in what appeared to be ordinary clothing featuring the Green Lantern logo, a look devised by Maxwell Lord. This has raised questions about whether the new uniforms for Hal Jordan and John Stewart in “Lanterns” will follow a similarly grounded, practical approach modeled after spacesuits, something that could divide the fan base.
Fans of the franchise seem eager to see updated versions of the classic green and black suits, with many still disappointed by the decisions made in past adaptations. In “Superman,” Guy Gardner’s costume clearly was not powered by a ring, suggesting that Hal and John might similarly abandon Power Ring-created outfits for more tangible, practical gear.
Possible Design Choices and Audience Reactions
It has been suggested that while some elements of the new costumes may incorporate CG enhancements, a fully computer-generated approach was intentionally avoided, likely due to budget considerations for a television production. However, there remains a possibility that costumes will resemble jumpsuits emblazoned with the Green Lantern symbol, which may not satisfy purists who favor the traditional look.
Given the absence of official images for the James Gunn Green Lantern costumes, opinions online are varied and often speculative, with fans relying on early descriptions and hints dropped by insiders.
The Premise, Creative Team, and Cast Details
Set against a backdrop of suspense and mystery, “Lanterns” focuses on new recruit John Stewart and seasoned Lantern Hal Jordan, both of whom serve as intergalactic officers investigating a murder that takes place in America’s heartland. Chris Mundy, known for his work on “True Detective: Night Country,” is the showrunner and executive producer, collaborating with Damon Lindelof (“Watchmen”) and Tom King, a celebrated comic book writer linked to “Supergirl.”
The primary cast features Aaron Pierre as John Stewart, Kyle Chandler as Hal Jordan, and Ulrich Thomsen portraying Sinestro. The ensemble is further strengthened by Kelly Macdonald, Garret Dillahunt, Poorna Jagannathan, Nicole Ari Parker, Jason Ritter, J. Alphonse Nicholson, and Jasmine Cephas Jones, reflecting a widespread commitment to the DC Studios adaptation.
Looking Forward to the HBO Max Release
“Lanterns” is expected to premiere on HBO in 2026, drawing considerable anticipation due to its new storytelling direction and the ongoing debate over costume authenticity. The final designs will likely be scrutinized upon release, as fans of the Green Lantern Corps, as well as notable figures like James Gunn and the assembled cast, watch for the series’ visual contributions to the DC Universe.
