In a significant casting development, J. Alphonse Nicholson, renowned for his role in P-Valley, is set to join HBO’s highly anticipated series, Lanterns. Nicholson will portray a younger version of John Stewart’s father, John Stewart Sr., adding depth to the backstory of one of DC Comics’ iconic Green Lanterns.
Lanterns is envisioned as a grounded, noir-inspired drama, drawing parallels to the investigative tone of True Detective. The narrative centers on two Green Lanterns: John Stewart, a former Marine stepping into his role as a Green Lantern, played by Aaron Pierre, and Hal Jordan, a seasoned member of the Corps, portrayed by Kyle Chandler. Together, they delve into a complex murder mystery set in America’s heartland, uncovering a conspiracy with far-reaching implications.
The ensemble cast boasts notable talents, including Nicole Ari Parker as Bernadette, John Stewart’s protective mother; Kelly Macdonald; Poorna Jagannathan; Ulrich Thomsen as the formidable Sinestro; and Jason Ritter. The series is spearheaded by an accomplished creative team featuring Chris Mundy (Ozark), Damon Lindelof (Watchmen), and Tom King (Mister Miracle).
James Hawes, known for his work on Black Mirror and Slow Horses, is slated to direct the initial episodes, setting the tone for the series. Lanterns marks a pivotal project for DC Studios, being one of the first live-action series greenlit under the leadership of James Gunn and Peter Safran. The eight-episode drama aims to infuse a prestige-TV sensibility into the superhero genre, with its release anticipated in 2026 on HBO and Max.
Nicholson’s addition to the cast is expected to enrich the narrative by exploring the formative influences in John Stewart’s life, offering viewers a deeper understanding of the character’s origins. This casting aligns with DC’s broader strategy to provide nuanced storytelling within its cinematic universe.
Beyond Lanterns, the Green Lantern Corps is set to expand its presence in upcoming DC projects. Notably, Nathan Fillion will introduce Guy Gardner in the forthcoming Superman film, and the animated series My Adventures With Green Lantern will spotlight Jessica Cruz, a rookie Lantern embroiled in intergalactic conflicts.
J. Alphonse Nicholson continues to build an impressive portfolio, with recent roles in Albany Road, FX’s Clipped, Hulu’s White Men Can’t Jump, Netflix’s Madam C.J. Walker alongside Octavia Spencer, Just Mercy with Michael B. Jordan, and They Cloned Tyrone. His Broadway performance in A Soldier’s Play, which secured a Tony Award for Best Revival of a Play, further underscores his versatile talent.
As production progresses, Lanterns is poised to offer a fresh perspective on the Green Lantern mythology, with Nicholson’s role as young John Stewart Sr. adding a compelling layer to the series’ exploration of heroism, legacy, and justice.
