“Rebel Ridge” star Aaron Pierre and “Beacon 23” actor Stephan James are reportedly in contention for the key role of Green Lantern John Stewart in the “Lanterns” series at HBO and DC Studios. THR confirmed the news from multiple sources indicating a decision could be made by the end of the weekend, and it’s not clear if the pair will test or read for the role shortly. Another actor, “Snowfall” star Damson Idris, was reportedly on the shortlist but has dropped out over a scheduling conflict.
The news comes as Kyle Chandler landed the role of original Green Lantern incarnation Hal Jordan who will be portrayed as older here than the disastrous prior 2011 film incarnation of the character starring Ryan Reynolds. Chandler snagged the role after multiple film actors passed on the part, including Josh Brolin and potentially Matthew McConaughey. indicates five actors in total officially passed on the part before Chandler landed it, the main reason cited being the baggage with the role following the film.
Chandler’s deal is for one year and no films, suggesting he’ll only be in the first season of this series, with whoever is playing Stewart likely to carry on in future DCU projects. The project has a straight-to-series order at HBO and follows two intergalactic cops drawn into a dark, earth-based mystery as they investigate a murder in the American heartland. Chris Mundy (“True Detective: Night Country”) is serving as showrunner and executive producer and wi.
