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

James Gunn's new take on Superman introduces a fresh version of the iconic superhero, along with Nathan Fillion stepping into the role of Green Lantern, specifically Guy Gardner. In a recent interview with TV Guide, Fillion revealed that his portrayal of Guy Gardner will diverge significantly from previous iterations of the character on film and television. According to Fillion, his version of Gardner is far from charming.

"He's a jerk!" Fillion exclaimed. "What's important to know is, you don't have to be good to be a Green Lantern; you just have to be fearless. 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 also highlighted Gardner's hubris, suggesting that his character's overconfidence might be considered a superpower in itself. "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 new Superman film marks the inaugural entry in a rebooted DC Cinematic Universe, launching the first chapter titled "Gods and Monsters." Alongside this cinematic venture, HBO is developing a series called "Lanterns," which will explore other members of the Green Lantern Corps. Kyle Chandler will portray Hal Jordan, and Aaron Pierre will play John Stewart. The series is slated to premiere in 2026.

James Gunn's Superman features David Corenswet as Clark Kent, Rachel Brosnahan as Lois Lane, Milly Alcock as Supergirl, and Nicholas Hoult as Lex Luthor. Gunn, who wrote and directed the film, is set to bring this new vision to theaters on July 11, 2025.