In a recent development, actor J. Alphonse Nicholson has joined the expanding cast of HBO’s upcoming series Lanterns, taking on a role that will focus on the personal past of one of DC Comics’ prominent heroes – John Stewart. According to reports from Deadline, Nicholson will portray the younger version of John Senior, who is the father of Aaron Pierre’s John Stewart. This suggests that the series Lanterns will delve into the early years and family background of the Green Lantern character. The casting choice hints at the possibility of flashbacks or extensive backstory being included in the show, which could reveal how John Stewart’s relationship with his father shaped him before he joined the intergalactic Green Lantern Corps. This move indicates that the HBO series intends to explore the psychological depths of its characters rather than solely focusing on their cosmic exploits.
Actor Niccolson has garnered praise for his role as Lil’ Murda in Starz’s series, “P-Valley.” Previously, he made appearances on FX’s “Clipped,” Hulu’s remake of “White Men Can’t Jump,” and Netflix’s show with Octavia Spencer, “Madam CJ Walker.” He also gained attention for his work in the movie “Just Mercy,” starring Michael B. Jordan. Moreover, he gave a standout performance in the Tony Award-winning Broadway revival of “A Soldier’s Play.
Including Michael Nicholson as John Stewart’s father offers a valuable chance for Aaron Pierre’s Green Lantern character development. In the comics, John Stewart grew up in Detroit under his father’s care after his mother passed away early, which significantly shaped his sense of justice and community duty. Although DC Comics has delved into Stewart’s profession as an architect and Marine before becoming a Green Lantern, his family background hasn’t been a central theme in most storylines. By introducing John Senior as a recurring character, it seems that the show Lanterns intends to make its cosmic hero more relatable by exploring how Stewart’s upbringing impacted his use of the power ring’s extraordinary powers.
How Lanterns Is Building a Character-Driven Foundation for the DCU
Including John Stewart’s father underscores the rich psychological layers that the series “Lanterns” aspires to create within DC Studios’ broader strategy of universe construction. This series, focusing on veteran Lantern Hal Jordan (Kyle Chandler) and newcomer John Stewart, explores a murder mystery in the heartland of America, marking a conscious shift in tone from other DCU productions. James Gunn, co-CEO of DC Studios, has emphasized this multi-faceted approach, stating that the contrast between “Lanterns'” gritty procedural feel and the hopeful tone of his upcoming “Superman” film reflects the studio’s vision for a universe that is connected yet diverse in its tonality.
What makes it appealing is its connection to Superman. With characters like Guy Gardner and the Green Lanterns, it offers a distinct vibe that contrasts with Superman’s. As James Gunn previously explained, this diversity in tone is precisely what he aims to bring to the DC Universe – a universe where different movies and shows share a common world yet have unique feels. This approach allows for an exploration of various genres within the narrative framework, such as how Lanterns draw influences from crime dramas like True Detective while Superman sticks to classic superhero storytelling.
The creative team behind the series Lanterns boasts a stellar lineup, spearheaded by Chris Mundy (known for his work on Ozark and True Detective: Night Country) alongside writers Tom King (a veteran Green Lantern comic book scribe) and Damon Lindelof (famous for HBO’s Watchmen). This fusion of television mastery and intricate comic book background has reportedly resulted in outstanding screenplays. Poorna Jagannathan, a cast member from Lanterns, previously commented that “This is the first script I’ve read that warrants an NDA. Everything is so extraordinary. It is the best writing I have ever encountered.
In addition to delving into John Stewart’s genealogy, Lanterns boasts a strong ensemble featuring Kelly MacDonald as Sheriff Kerry, a law enforcer who finds herself in an otherworldly conundrum. Garrett Dillahunt embodies the character of William Macon, a man believed to be a reimagined version of the Green Lantern villain Black Hand, with his self-righteousness and concealed ruthless ambition hidden beneath a charismatic and manipulative demeanor. Jason Ritter steps into the role of Billy Macon, son of William, bringing more family dynamics to Lanterns. The standout addition might be Emmy nominee Ulrich Thomsen, who will portray Sinestro, a legendary Green Lantern whose descent and transformation into the Corps’ arch-nemesis offers one of DC’s most captivating villain narratives.
As a devoted cinephile, I’m eagerly anticipating the premier of “Lanterns” on HBO and Max in 2026. This highly-awaited film is set to hit the screens approximately a year after the July 11, 2025 release of “Superman”.
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2025-03-21 12:40