‘Lanterns’ co-creator Damon Lindelof apologizes for ‘dumb joke’ that upset DC fans and a comics icon

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“Lanterns” co-creator Damon Lindelof is setting the record straight: “Green is f— awesome.”

The writer, known for his extensive work on television and also an executive producer for the new superhero series coming to HBO Max, responded to criticism about past comments regarding the name of the ‘Green Lantern’ show. He issued a detailed apology on Instagram on Monday.

The showrunner of “Lost” admitted to telling a silly joke on a comedy podcast. Sharing a photo from his first Comic-Con – where he wore a bright green Green Lantern shirt – he explained he wasn’t going to try and justify it. He acknowledged the joke was bad but praised the fans, saying they deserved an explanation and his honest thoughts.

Lindelof explained the reason behind the title of his upcoming TV show during an appearance on the “Lovett or Leave It” podcast in 2024. When host Jon Lovett mentioned the show, Lindelof said they decided on “Lanterns” because they all thought the original title, which included the word “Green,” was silly.

Movies

Okay, I’m officially hyped! James Gunn just dropped a sneak peek of Jason Momoa as Lobo for the new ‘Supergirl’ movie, and it looks amazing. It’s so cool to see him switching gears after playing Aquaman – he’s going to be a fantastic Lobo, I can already tell!

Comments from the past came to light again after the first trailer for “Lanterns” was released earlier this month, when fans pointed out the absence of the color green. The reaction grew strong enough that even comic book legend Grant Morrison took notice. Morrison, who wrote a “Green Lantern” comic series between 2018 and 2021, publicly questioned why Lindelof had taken on the “Lanterns” project in a recent post on his Substack blog.

Morrison questioned why a writer would work on a story they considered silly, asking what the point was of dismissing familiar superhero elements. They wondered if the writer, Lindelof, was trying to appear less of a fan himself. Morrison pointed out that the only audience who would care about the ‘Lanterns’ TV series were already Green Lantern enthusiasts, and starting off by alienating them seemed counterproductive and, frankly, foolish.

I really appreciated how Lindelof addressed Morrison’s points and admitted he’d messed up. Then he shared something genuinely touching – how much Hal Jordan, one of the Green Lanterns in the show, meant to him as a kid. It was cool to hear that personal connection; it made the whole thing feel more real.

Lindelof explained in a social media post that, as a shy and awkward child, he always admired heroes who used their imaginations. He also playfully defended his choice of the color green, stating it’s been his favorite since childhood – he even has a third-grade questionnaire to prove it!

Hollywood Inc.

The latest Superman movie, with David Corenswet in the lead role, marks the beginning of a fresh start for DC Studios, which has faced challenges in consistently delivering successful superhero films.

Look, honestly, it would feel like a huge letdown to everyone I collaborated with – the whole team that made Lanterns – if I didn’t say how incredibly honored I was to be involved. And I truly am. I messed up by being careless with my words, which is pretty ironic considering how much I love Hal Jordan, John Stewart, and the entire Green Lantern Corps. I know I can do better to live up to the standards of the oath, and I will. Until then, I’m going to let the show itself do the talking – and I’m so excited for everyone to finally hear it!

Nathan Fillion, known for playing Superman, and James Gunn, head of DC Studios, were among those who commented on Lindelof’s Instagram post. Fillion’s character, Guy Gardner, will be featured in the upcoming series “Lanterns.”

Nathan Fillion thought the joke was hilarious, writing, ‘No harm, no foul! Keep up the great work, we appreciate you!’ He also added a green glove emoji to his message. James Gunn simply showed his support with a green heart emoji.

The upcoming series “Lanterns” centers around intergalactic police officers with superpowers. It will feature new team member John Stewart, played by Aaron Pierre, and experienced officer Hal Jordan, played by Kyle Chandler, as they solve a murder case. Created by Damon Lindelof, Tom King, and showrunner Chris Mundy, the show is set to debut in August.

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2026-03-18 02:31