October 10, 2024: Aaron Pierre has been cast as John Stewart in HBO’s much-anticipated DC series Lanterns, marking a significant development for the DC Universe.
Known for his role in Rebel Ridge, Pierre will share the screen with Hal Jordan, the veteran Green Lantern, who is reportedly set to be portrayed by Kyle Chandler, pending final negotiations. Pierre’s selection follows an extensive casting process, with Pierre emerging as a standout among candidates, including Stephen James.
Lanterns will explore the story of rookie Lantern John Stewart alongside Hal Jordan as they become embroiled in a gripping mystery on Earth, investigating a murder in the heart of America. The series, produced by Warner Bros Television and DC Studios, will consist of eight episodes. Chris Mundy, famed for his work on Ozark, will helm the series as showrunner.
The writing team includes acclaimed figures such as Damon Lindelof (Watchmen) and comic book writer Tom King, both serving as co-writers and executive producers. James Hawes is set to direct the first two episodes and will also be an executive producer.
Aaron Pierre’s career has been on the rise, with him leading Rebel Ridge and being cast as the voice of Mufasa in Barry Jenkins’ The Lion King prequel.
He is also filming Apple TV+’s The Morning Show and recently portrayed Malcolm X in National Geographic’s Genius: MLK/X. His casting as John Stewart adds to the excitement surrounding Lanterns and the new direction of the DC Universe under James Gunn and Peter Safran’s leadership.