HBO's Lanterns Brings Two Different Versions Of John Stewart Together

HBO's Lanterns brings two distinct portrayals of John Stewart to the forefront in its third episode, OutKast. This installment serves as a near-standalone origin story, delving into the contrasting paths of John's two legacies - the tactical prowess of his Justice League animated series counterpart and his architectural background from DC Comics.

The episode begins by exploring John's military service, which he embarked upon to emulate his father and attain the status of the next Green Lantern. This decision is underscored by his interactions with the Guardian, who recounts that joining the U.S. Marine Corps was a path laid out for him to reach this point. However, his tenure in the military did not end on a positive note, as he was subsequently dishonorably discharged.

Following his departure from the military, John's mother plays a pivotal role in reigniting his childhood passion for drawing. She enrolls him in art school, providing him with an opportunity to reclaim an identity that had been shelved. This return to art directly correlates with his comic book counterpart's career as an architect, which significantly influences how he wields his power ring.

John Stewart's comic book debut in Green Lantern #87 from 1971 was heavily influenced by the Black political and cultural movements of the era. When adapted for the 2001 Justice League animated series, producer Bruce Timm opted to update John Stewart by making him a Marine, positioning him as the "military guy" of the DCAU's first Justice League lineup. Later, this aspect was incorporated into his comics backstory.

Comparing John's DCAU Marine background to his artistic and architectural mindset, OutKast elucidates the unique approach he takes to wielding the ring. Unlike Hal Jordan, who relies on his test pilot intuition, John approaches the ring with the precision of an architect, projecting constructs with tactical permanence. This is exemplified in Lanterns Episode 2, Trust Fall, where his sniper focus, combined with an artist's understanding of composition and structural integrity, enables him to create and maintain autonomous structures using the ring.