Nathan Fillion's Green Lantern: A 'Jerk' in Gunn's Superman Film

James Gunn's upcoming Superman film introduces a fresh take on the DC universe, featuring Nathan Fillion as the iconic Green Lantern, Guy Gardner. In a recent interview with TV Guide, Fillion revealed that his portrayal of Gardner will be notably different from previous iterations. "He's a jerk!" Fillion exclaimed, emphasizing that being a Green Lantern doesn't require goodness, just fearlessness. "So Guy Gardner is fearless, and he is not very good. He's not nice, which is very freeing as an actor because you just think to yourself, what is the most selfish, self-serving thing I can do in this moment? And that's the answer. That's what you do in that moment."

Fillion further elaborated on Gardner's character, noting his overconfidence as a potential superpower. "I think if he has a superpower, it might be his overconfidence, in that he thinks he could take on Superman," Fillion said. "He can't!"

This Superman film marks the first entry in a rebooted DC Cinematic Universe, titled Gods and Monsters. Alongside Superman, the film boasts an impressive cast including David Corenswet as Clark Kent, Rachel Brosnahan as Lois Lane, Milly Alcock as Supergirl, and Nicholas Hoult as Lex Luthor. Directed and written by James Gunn, the film is slated for release on July 11, 2025.

Interest in the Green Lanterns extends beyond Gunn's film. HBO is currently developing a series titled Lanterns, focusing on other members of the superhero alliance. Kyle Chandler will portray Hal Jordan, and Aaron Pierre will play John Stewart. The series is scheduled to premiere in 2026.