James Gunn Responds to Fan Outrage and Hints at "Lanterns" Runtime

James Gunn hinted at the approximate duration of the "Lanterns" series while interacting with fans on social media. It all started with a user's comment stating that DC should have made a movie instead of a series. In response, the head of DC Studios wrote: "So you want to watch an eight-hour movie?" Fans interpreted the remark as a hint that each episode of the eight-episode season would last about an hour.

"Lanterns" will tell the story of two Green Lanterns: the experienced Hal Jordan, played by Kyle Chandler, and the newcomer John Stewart, played by Aaron Pierre. The heroes investigate a murder in Nebraska, but the case gradually leads them to a larger threat to the entire DCU.

HBO recently released a new trailer for "Lanterns" and confirmed the premiere date. The series will debut on August 16, 2026, on HBO and HBO Max.