Lanterns is 'as much of a buddy cop show as a superhero show', showrunner says – and that won't surprise Green Lantern fans

• Lanterns co-creator Chris Mundy has revealed a new major detail about its story
• The DC Universe TV show is expected to arrive sometime in early 2026
• It'll include the passing of the Green Lantern mantle from one character to another

Lanterns will be "as much a buddy cop show as a superhero show", according to co-creator Chris Mundy.

The forthcoming DC Universe (DCU) show, which is slated to arrive sometime next year, is one of the most exciting projects on HBO's 2026 TV slate. Indeed, with two heavyweight actors in Aaron Pierre and Kyle Chandler portraying Lanterns' lead characters, and a midwestern sci-fi murder mystery at the heart of its narrative, it's easily among my most anticipated shows of the next 12 months.

Those details aside, much of the DCU Chapter One production has been kept hidden from prying eyes. Now, Mundy – a member of Lanterns' three-strong chief creative team – has gingerly lifted the lid on what we can expect from the dynamic between Pierre's John Stewart and Chandler's Hal Jordan – individuals who are two of the most beloved Green Lanterns in DC comic book history.

Speaking to Men's Health for a cover story on Pierre, Mundy said: "[Lanterns is] as much of a buddy cop show as a superhero show. In a lot of ways, [it's] about replacement – when should someone step aside and when is it time for the next person to take the reins?

“That push and pull between those two characters is really important," Mundy continued. "So much of the power that John has is by not taking the bait, understanding that you lose your power if you’re yelling and screaming. That’s what we’re trying to convey. He knows he belongs, so he doesn’t have to overcompensate."

Stewart was the fourth individual to adopt the Green Lantern mantle in the comics, but made history in December 1971 by becoming the first Black character to join the Green Lantern Corps. Given this collective of ring-wearing individuals are part of the aforementioned intergalactic space cop agency, Mundy's "buddy cop" description of the show certainly fits like a glove – or, if you prefer, ring.

Since then, Stewart has become a revered comic book figure, especially among Black readers, and grown in popularity thanks to his appearances in numerous animated shows, including Justice League and Justice League Unlimited. With Stewart set to be introduced to a new generation of viewers when Lanterns hits HBO, HBO Max, and other streaming platforms early next year, the responsibility of playing such an iconic character isn't lost on Pierre.

"For me, the character just radiates strength and fortitude," the Rebel Ridge and Mufasa star said. "That hunger to be the best version of yourself, which also holds you accountable when you’re not."

"Aaron felt a responsibility, especially as a Black man playing this particular role, to make sure he really understood him and brought him to life,” Mundy added. "I think fans will see the reverence he has for it, and that goes a long way."

Are you excited for Lanterns? Let me know in the comments. And, for more on the series, including its likely plot and confirmed cast, read my dedicated guide on Lanterns.

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