Nathan Fillion reveals inspirations for playing Guy Gardner as he prepares to portray the Green Lantern in the upcoming Superman film, set to premiere in July 2025. Fillion’s approach to the fan-favorite Justice Gang character has drawn attention for its peculiar style and unexpected influences, as he seeks to capture the unique personality traits that set Guy Gardner apart.
How Nathan Fillion Crafted His Version of Guy Gardner
Audiences have noticed that Nathan Fillion’s take on Guy Gardner stands out among the Justice Gang, with his portrayal feeling notably different from other characters in the Superman film. Guy Gardner, who has long been a popular yet sometimes divisive figure in comic lore, is now being reinterpreted through Fillion’s lens, prompting curiosity among both dedicated fans and new viewers who are eager to see how his version will fit alongside the ensemble cast.
In conversation on the DC Studios Showcase Podcast, Nathan Fillion discussed where he drew inspiration for playing this iconic Green Lantern. He explained that his interpretation began with a deep dive into some of Guy Gardner’s earliest comic appearances, where a traumatic event in the character’s backstory provided a critical foundation for his performance. Specifically, a pivotal moment involving a bus accident that left Gardner with lasting effects shaped how Fillion approached the role.
“Part of his origin was he was, at one point, hit by a bus and was in a coma. So I just say that’s the thing that flipped the switch. That’s the thing that caused a little bit of brain damage. Now he’s just…off a little bit.”
—Nathan Fillion, Actor
Drawing Inspiration from Classic Television
In addition to referencing Guy Gardner’s comic history, Fillion also looked beyond the superhero genre for character cues. He cited the influence of classic sitcoms, particularly the performance of Estelle Getty as Sophia Petrillo in The Golden Girls, as forming the basis for Gardner’s brash and unfiltered manner of speaking. This unexpected source from television history enabled Fillion to channel boldness and candor into his portrayal of Gardner, resulting in a character who always says exactly what is on his mind, regardless of the consequences.
“You know, I took my inspiration from the oldest cast member from [The] Golden Girls, where she just, whatever she wanted to say, just there was no filter. Just whatever it is. There it is. He’s just gonna say it.”
—Nathan Fillion, Actor
This combination of influences—from a dramatic comic book event to the comedic delivery style of a beloved sitcom star—shaped the personality that fans have seen in released clips and promotional material for Superman. The result is a Green Lantern marked by bravado, bluntness, and what Fillion describes as being just “off a little bit.”
What’s Next for Guy Gardner and the Green Lantern Corps in the DC Universe
The distinct approach Nathan Fillion brings to Guy Gardner has contributed to anticipation for Superman’s upcoming release and signals a fresh direction for the Green Lantern Corps within the DC Universe. With Fillion’s engaging performance and the character’s growing presence, there is speculation that Guy Gardner will remain a recurring figure in future DC projects. Fans look forward to seeing how this portrayal will evolve as the Green Lantern Corps expands its role and as the Justice Gang’s dynamics continue to develop in the post-2025 DC cinematic landscape.
Superman is set to be released in theaters on July 11, 2025, with Nathan Fillion’s interpretation of Guy Gardner poised to make a memorable impact for both long-time comic followers and new viewers alike.
