Kyle Chandler's portrayal of Hal Jordan in HBO's Lanterns has received widespread praise from critics and audiences, with the actor bringing cocky panache to the character that draws viewers into Green Lantern mythology. The series' detective-focused approach, paired with Chandler's charismatic performance, creates compelling television that separates it from a conventional superhero adventure.

However, this casting could have looked very different, since Josh Brolin was originally approached for Hal before passing on the role.

Now, his old comments about Chandler have resurfaced as the first season approaches its finale.

Josh Brolin addressed the Lanterns conversations during a 2024 ComicBook.com interview while promoting Brothers with Peter Dinklage. Asked about reports that he had turned down the part, Brolin confirmed that discussions had taken place without explaining why the deal fell through.

Brolin then turned toward the actor who ultimately landed Hal Jordan. “I love him as an actor. I think he's wonderful actually ”he said.

The comment feels especially timely now. Chandler's Hal has become one of Lanterns' defining elements, carrying the swagger of an experienced intergalactic cop while gradually exposing the damaged man underneath. Rotten Tomatoes' review roundup highlights Chandler and Aaron Pierre's performances and chemistry as major strengths, while The Hollywood Reporter praised the insecurities Chandler brings to Hal.

Brolin also left his own DC future open during that interview, saying they would see what might happen “down the line.” His comic-book résumé already includes Thanos across the Marvel Cinematic Universe and Cable in Deadpool 2.

Power Ranking All 3 Green Lanterns in DCU's 'Lanterns': Hal Jordan vs John Stewart vs Guy Gardner, Who's The Strongest?

Brolin may have missed Hal Jordan, but Chandler's future with the ring now carries a stranger question.

HBO has not officially renewed Lanterns for Season 2. Still, work on a possible continuation has moved forward. Reports in July stated that a Season 2 writers' room had been assembled and writing had begun, while showrunner Chris Mundy later told The Hollywood Reporter that the team was in the “breaking-story stages.” None of that amounts to a formal renewal.

Chandler's status is harder to read. Through Episode 7, Hal Jordan remains dead in the 2026 storyline. Chandler has continued appearing through flashbacks and the Halogram stored inside John's ring, allowing the series to keep Hal central while investigating the circumstances surrounding his death.

James Gunn has defended the decision to kill Hal and stressed that the circumstances surrounding his death are more complicated than they first appear.That leaves several storytelling routes open for Chandler, including further Halogram appearances, earlier timelines, or revelations that reshape what viewers understand about Hal's fate. For now, Chandler has not been confirmed for a potential second season.

“Seen ‘Lanterns’ 500 Times” – James Gunn’s Gushes With High Praise for the DCU Series Finale Ahead of Release

What do you think about Brolin's praise for Kyle Chandler, and would you like to see Chandler continue as Hal Jordan next season? Let us know below in the comments.