DCU Theory Reveals the Biggest Green Lantern Twist Is Coming in 2026 (& This 32-Year-Old Story Is the Key)

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The new series, Lanterns, is generating a lot of excitement among Green Lantern fans, especially because it will star both Hal Jordan and John Stewart. The show will focus on an experienced Hal Jordan mentoring John Stewart as he learns to become a Green Lantern. However, a popular fan theory suggests a big surprise is coming, and it all connects to a story from over 30 years ago.

As a huge comic and movie fan, I’ve been thinking a lot about the story from 1994’s Emerald Twilight, which actually started with the events following ‘Reign of the Supermen.’ It’s a really impactful arc where Sinestro’s long-game plan finally pays off. What’s so tragic is seeing Hal Jordan break after Coast City is destroyed – he gives in to this fear entity called Parallax and just…snaps. He ends up killing a lot of people, even members of the Guardians and other Lanterns. It’s a really dark turn that ultimately leads to his death. I’ve been wondering if the show is going to revisit this storyline, because seeing an older version of Jordan makes me think they might be setting up that tragic event to happen again.

Killing off Jordan and turning him into a major villain would dramatically change the story, likely pushing Stewart to take on a role similar to Kyle Rayner within the established mythology. This could also open the door for Sinestro’s return and explore the emotional spectrum and its powerful beings. However, making Jordan a villain so early on might be unexpected, as fans haven’t had much chance to connect with him as a hero yet.

Adapting Emerald Twilight Would Make John Stewart The Main Green Lantern

Everyone has a favorite Green Lantern, but Hal Jordan is arguably the most important and well-known. He has a long history with some of the most famous Green Lantern stories, and has often been the public face of the entire Corps. Plus, his rivalry with Sinestro, the most recognizable Green Lantern villain, solidifies his central role.

If we changed the story to make Jordan the villain Parallax, then Stewart would become the hero, working to save his old teacher. Guy Gardner is already part of the DC Universe, but he’s not a good fit for this role, making Stewart the most likely candidate to take up the mantle.

Many fans love Kyle Rayner and consider him their favorite Green Lantern, particularly those who enjoyed the Justice League and Justice League Unlimited animated series. His character has also become more prominent in the comics over time. He’s well-positioned to take center stage in the DC Universe, and focusing a storyline around him would be a great way to establish him as a leading hero.

Lanterns will release on HBO Max later in 2026.

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2026-01-27 19:18