The DC Extended Universe (DCEU) soldiers on with plans for a new Green Lantern-themed movie (and yes, even Ryan Reynolds has been mentioned in these early days as possibly returning as Hal Jordan). In 2020, Green Lantern Corps is scheduled to arrive in theaters, featuring a number of familiar names from the history of the space-faring, peace-keeping force. But leading the charge will be Jordan and his fellow GL John Stewart, who will join together in what has been described as “Lethal Weapon in space.”
One of the more significant members of the Corps, John Stewart was created by artist Neal Adams and writer Dennis O’Neil back in 1971. A historic figure in his own right, Stewart could wind up being one of the shining lights of the Green Lantern Corps movie. So let’s take a look at how he kicked off his superheroic career in the comics, what his powers and abilities are, and how he could be depicted in the GLC movie…
Stewart was originally chosen by the Guardians of Oa as a substitute Green Lantern for times when Hal Jordan was indisposed, either on solo missions or as a member of the Justice League. Over the years, he’s also weathered his share of traumatic turning points, temporarily evolved into a mortal Guardian dubbed the Master Builder, became a Darkstar (another force similar to the GLs), and joined the Indigo Tribe offshoot of Lanterns as well as the Honor Guard. The man is a hard-working hero, no question about it.
First Appearance:
- Green Lantern #87 (Volume 2) (December, 1971)
John Stewart's first appearance in Green Lantern #87
As with just about all members of the Green Lantern Corps, Stewart possesses a rechargeable ring that generates energy in whatever shape or form he desires; its power is limited only by Stewart’s own imagination. Stewart’s ring creations are said to be particularly well constructed and solid all the way through, and he also has superior flying and shooting skills as well. At various times, Stewart has wielded other rings and also demonstrated even more extraordinary powers, like the ability to draw upon the energy of multiple Lantern rings and even going so far as to kill when circumstances demand the ultimate response.
Deliberately conceived as DC Comics’ first black superhero after a conversation between DC editor Julius Schwartz and Neal Adams, former US Marine and architect John Stewart debuted in the midst of civil unrest; his character often functioned as a heavy-handed but well-meaning commentary on the state of race relations in the country. Stewart also broke with tradition by refusing to wear a face mask, thereby keeping his identity public. Over the years, Stewart often worked in tandem with Jordan (DC’s “main” Green Lantern since 1959) and even fully replaced him at times. His romance with and marriage to a fellow Green Lantern and his own personal Lantern trainer, Katma Tui of Korugar (the same world that birthed renegade Lantern Sinestro), ended in tragedy when Katma was killed by Star Sapphire, the villainous side of Hal Jordan’s girlfriend Carol Ferris (this is getting complicated -- hold on).
John Stewart means business.
Stewart has had his history go through some revision -- as with so many fellow DC characters -- in the wake of multiple alterations to the multiverse and timelines over the years. While a great deal of Stewart’s history still stands, some aspects of his career up until the events of the New 52 may now be erased. In the current continuity, Stewart grew up poor with a mother dedicated to fighting for a better life through community organizing. Stewart went into the military despite her displeasure and then pursued a degree in architecture. He was recruited by the Guardians, who recognized his potential but were also concerned over where it might take him. His exploits eventually led to his inclusion in the elite Green Lantern Honor Guard, which basically tells you the only truly important thing you need to know about John Stewart -- he’s awesome.
As noted, Stewart and Jordan are expected to be the two leads of the Green Lantern Corps film. Stewart could perhaps be the point person for the audience as they’re introduced to the wider cosmic world of the Lantern Corps; granted, Hal Jordan is also supposed to be present, but who knows how the cast hierarchy will shake out, especially after Hal’s last big screen outing? The recent news report that placed Stewart and Jordan at the center of the film specified that “the story very much focuses on [Stewart’s] relationship with Jordan and the Corps.”
Stewart in the Justice League animated series
Interestingly, the great Justice League/Justice League Unlimited animated series which ran from 2001 to 2006 featured John Stewart as a founding member of the League, with Hal Jordan taking a complete backseat. (He was only featured once, and briefly, in a reality-altering moment.) This depiction of Stewart as a no-nonsense hero -- with a heart of gold! -- helped further endear the character to fans, as did his romantic entanglement with fellow Leaguer Hawkgirl. We’d love to see that relationship be developed in live-action as well, but we’ll have to wait until the Green Lantern Corps hits in 2020 to find out if it will, ahem, take flight…
What do you hope to see from John Stewart and the Green Lantern Corps movie? Discuss in the comments! And for all your DCEU news and info, keep it locked to IGN.
Find Arnold T. Blumberg on Twitter at @DoctoroftheDead.
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