Damon Lindelof Apologizes for ‘Stupid’ Comment About ‘Green Lantern’ Title

“Lanterns” co-creator Damon Lindelof has issued an apology for a joke he made in 2024 regarding the show’s title, stemming from comments that resurfaced with the release of the series’ first trailer. Lindelof’s initial remark, made on the “Lovett or Leave It” podcast, suggested the removal of “Green” from “Green Lanterns” was due to the color being “stupid.”

Backlash and Criticism

The remarks drew criticism from fans and comic book writer Grant Morrison, who questioned Lindelof’s commitment to the source material. Morrison, a writer on a Green Lantern comic series from 2018 to 2021, challenged why Lindelof would capture on the project if he considered it “fundamentally ‘stupid.’”

Lindelof’s Apology

Lindelof addressed the controversy in a lengthy Instagram post, stating, “I made a dumb joke on a comedy podcast… the joke was dumb, the fandom is not.” He acknowledged his “sloppy and careless” words and expressed his lifelong appreciation for the Green Lantern character, particularly Hal Jordan, sharing a childhood questionnaire proving green was his favorite color.

He emphasized his respect for the team involved in “Lanterns” and stated his intention to let the show speak for itself. Lindelof also affirmed his commitment to doing better and being “worthy of the oath.”

Support from Colleagues

Lindelof received support from several industry figures, including Nathan Fillion, who plays Guy Gardner in “Lanterns,” and DC Studios co-chief James Gunn. Fillion commented with a green glove emoji, calling the joke “funny,” while Gunn simply posted a green heart emoji.

About ‘Lanterns’

“Lanterns,” set to premiere in August, is described as a grounded take on the Green Lantern mythos, focusing on superpowered intergalactic cops. The series will follow new recruit John Stewart (Aaron Pierre) and veteran Hal Jordan (Kyle Chandler) as they investigate a murder. The show is co-created by Lindelof, Tom King, and showrunner Chris Mundy.

HBO’s Marketing Approach

HBO appears to be marketing “Lanterns” as a “True Detective”-style mystery rather than a traditional superhero show, with the initial trailer featuring minimal overt comic book elements and a notable absence of the color green.