Lanterns' Kyle Chandler And Aaron Pierre Discuss Hal And John's Complicated Relationship: Mortality, Mentorship, And More — Watch

In HBO's Lanterns series premiere, actor Kyle Chandler, who portrays interplanetary space cop Green Lantern Hal Jordan, reveals that there is more to Hal than meets the eye. Despite his seemingly laid-back demeanor, filled with humor and a disregard for ironing his clothing, Chandler explains that Hal has a deep understanding of John Stewart, his new trainee played by Aaron Pierre.

Initially, Hal believes that mentoring John is just a temporary phase, as he has been in the Green Lantern business for a long time and already knows what to expect. However, as their relationship evolves, it becomes apparent that Hal is not only concerned with teaching John the ropes but also with the significant changes coming in his own life. As Chandler shares in the video above, Hal realizes that time is running out, and a 10-year time jump at the series' end indicates that his career will soon come to an end.

Chandler and Pierre discuss the complexities of their characters' relationship, which is marked by mentorship, mortality, anger, and hatred. As John, playing the role of a military-trained soldier, has to lead with a cold and objective mindset, he constantly faces insults and adversity from Hal. This dynamic allows Hal to constantly test and challenge his pupil, which is a result of his military background and love for precision.

Both Chandler and Pierre acknowledge that their characters' relationship is fraught with tension, but it also serves to highlight the importance of Hal's identity and the realization that his time as a Green Lantern is limited. The series promises to explore these themes further in its upcoming episodes, leaving fans eager to witness the dynamic between these two characters unfold.