Lanterns Producer Brands DC Power Rings Sexist
As HBO’s DC Comics adaptation “Lanterns” approaches the final stretch of its first season, co-executive producer and writer Vanessa Baden Kelly has sparked intense debate by branding the universe’s iconic power rings “sexist.” The series, which draws strong early numbers, faces mounting scrutiny over lore modifications and creative choices surrounding characters like Hal Jordan.
The latest narrative wave hits as the network measures substantial viewership gains. According to network data announced yesterday, the third episode of “Lanterns” averaged 10 million viewers globally and 7 million in the U.S. after three days of availability, achieving week-to-week growth since its premiere.
Deconstructing the Canon: Inside the Writers’ Room
Speaking in a recent interview with Collider, Kelly detailed the inner workings of the writers’ room. She credited comics writer Tom King for keeping the team anchored to established continuity. King’s presence ensured the series remained respectful to the canon while introducing a fresh, human, and grounded version of the central characters.
Kelly pointed to the specific mechanics of the power ring itself, noting its historical selection process. The ring famously chose John Stewart Sr. before eventually settling on Hal Jordan. For Kelly, that mechanism overlooked formidable candidates like John Jr.’s mother, Bernadette, whom she describes as one of the strongest and most fearless figures in the series.
“The thing that I would always say in the room is that if the ring wasn’t sexist, Bernadette would have been chosen, because she really is just the most fearless of everybody,” Kelly told Collider. She added that the ring’s selection criteria ultimately favors those “dumb enough to not be scared” rather than the genuinely bravest individuals.
These admissions arrive amid a broader wave of fan discussion and critique. Earlier in the production cycle, executive producer Damon Lindelof faced heavy pushback online after labeling the word “Green” in Green Lantern “stupid.” Viewers have also split sharply over creative decisions regarding Hal Jordan’s introduction in the opening episodes.
Navigating High-Stakes Intellectual Property Management
Managing radical departures from foundational comic book lore requires delicate narrative and brand balancing. Maintaining creative freedom while keeping legacy fans engaged demands precise communication from network executives.
With five episodes remaining in the current season, the showrunners have consistently urged audiences to withhold definitive judgments until the complete narrative unfolds. As the series continues its streaming trajectory on SVOD platforms, the ongoing debate over the ring’s methodology highlights the complex economics of adapting beloved comic book properties for contemporary television audiences.