Nathan Fillion's Green Lantern Is a 'Jerk' In James Gunn's Upcoming Superman: 'You Don't Have To Be Good'

A fresh take on Superman is on the horizon, courtesy of James Gunn, and it's bringing with it Nathan Fillion's unique portrayal of Green Lantern. In a recent interview with TV Guide, Fillion revealed that his version of Guy Gardner will stand out from other iterations seen on both the big and small screens. Unlike the typically charming depictions, Fillion's Guy Gardner is set to be a far less likable character.

"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 further elaborated on Gardner's character, pointing out his hubris. "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!"

The upcoming Superman film marks the first entry in a completely rebooted DC Cinematic Universe and will kick off the inaugural chapter of the new DCU, dubbed "Gods and Monsters." While the DC establishment is abuzz with excitement, HBO is also delving into the Green Lantern mythos with a series titled "Lanterns," which will explore other members of the superhero alliance. Kyle Chandler will portray Hal Jordan, and Aaron Pierre will play John Stewart. This series is 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. James Gunn, who wrote and directed the film, is set to bring this new vision to theaters on July 11, 2025.