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Warning: This article contains spoilers for “Lanterns” Season 1, Episode 1
Hal Jordan (portrayed by Kyle Chandler) and John Stewart (played by Aaron Pierre) form a dynamic yet tumultuous duo in “Lanterns,” the latest offering from HBO in its expanding DC Universe series. The show artfully blends elements of detective drama with superhero action as it follows the pair—one a seasoned Green Lantern, the other his apprentice—on their mission to unravel a series of bizarre murders in a quaint town, only to discover that extraterrestrial forces are at play.
Naturally, their probing inquiry would have been abruptly halted were it not for Hal and his indispensable power ring, which he wields as Earth’s pioneering Green Lantern. The episode doesn’t just stop there; it intrigues viewers with fascinating lore revelations, notably the introduction of the enigmatic overseers of the Green Lantern Corps: the Guardians of the Universe.
Given the already immense might of a Green Lantern’s ring, the revelation of these Guardians invites curiosity: Who are these beings that stand at the apex of the Green Lantern hierarchy? Let’s delve into what makes the Guardians of the Universe such significant figures, both in the series and their comic origins.
The Guardians of the Universe live up to their moniker
DC Comics
The Guardians of the Universe—referred to by Hal Jordan with less reverence as the “big blue b******s”—hold a venerable status within the DC comics lore, and it appears they will wield similar significance in the DC Universe show. Originating from the ancient world of Maltus, these immortal beings have existed since time immemorial, dedicating themselves to quelling chaos and upholding cosmic order.
The history of the Green Lantern Corps is lengthy, but it’s just the latest of the Guardians’ many attempts to peacekeep the universe. Before this, they’ve policed the galaxies, captured dangerous entities, and even fought wars themselves. They’ve also experimented with a failed, robotic peacekeeping force known as the Manhunters, as well as a gun-toting space cop team known as the Halla’s. They’re also subject to internal conflicts, which has led to more than one splinter faction with their own interests.
While the Green Lantern Corps isn’t perfect, the Green Lanterns of Earth alone prove that they can be extremely heroic and formidable. It will be interesting to see, however, whether “Lanterns” will delve deeper into the history of the Guardians, and whether representatives of this elusive group will turn up on Earth in future episodes of HBO’s Green Lantern series.