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

James Gunn is bringing a fresh take on Superman to the big screen, and with it, Nathan Fillion steps into the role of Green Lantern's Guy Gardner. In a recent interview with TV Guide, Fillion shared insights into his unique portrayal of the character, emphasizing that his version of Gardner will diverge significantly from previous iterations seen in films and TV shows. "He's a jerk!" Fillion exclaimed, highlighting that being a Green Lantern doesn't require goodness, just fearlessness. "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 touched on Gardner's hubris, describing it as a potential superpower. "I think if he has a superpower, it might be his overconfidence, in that he thinks he could take on Superman," he noted, quickly adding, "He can't!"

This new Superman film marks the first entry in a completely rebooted DC Cinematic Universe, initiating the chapter titled "Gods and Monsters." Alongside the film, HBO is currently filming a series called "Lanterns," which focuses on other members of the Green Lantern Corps. Kyle Chandler will play Hal Jordan, and Aaron Pierre will portray John Stewart, with the series slated to premiere in 2026.

The cast of Superman includes David Corenswet as Clark Kent, Rachel Brosnahan as Lois Lane, Milly Alcock as Supergirl, and Nicholas Hoult as Lex Luthor. Written and directed by James Gunn, the film is scheduled to hit theaters on July 11, 2025.