The DC Universe seems to have finally found its Hal Jordan after weeks of speculation around the highly coveted role for the upcoming HBO series Lanterns. According to reports, Friday Night Lights star Kyle Chandler is set to play Hal Jordan, one of the most popular characters in DC Comics to hold the mantle of Green Lantern.
Given the intense speculation around the role, Chandler’s casting might seem odd, especially given his age and the different actors fans wanted to see in the role. However, Chandler’s reaction to Ben Affleck’s casting as Batman in the now-defunct DCEU brings his own casting in a DC project full circle. Here is what Chandler had to say about Affleck’s Batman.
Kyle Chandler Reacted to Ben Affleck’s Batman Casting Backlash
Actor Kyle Chandler rose to prominence with his critically acclaimed performance as high school football coach Eric Taylor in the sports-drama series Friday Night Lights. Chandler worked with Ben Affleck on the 2012 biographical drama film Argo, which was directed by the latter.
While discussing his role in the movie with BuzzFeed, Chandler was asked about Affleck’s casting as Bruce Wayne / Batman, with the actor set to debut in the then-upcoming Batman v Superman. Affleck’s casting received backlash from some fans who deemed him unfit for the role.
What I hope is that he nails it and I hope he looks at everyone and says, take that!
Chandler made the above statement, expressing hope that his former director would prove naysayers wrong with his performance as Batman.
Despite the mixed critical reception of the DCEU, Affleck’s Batman quickly became one of its high points. Affleck carved a niche for himself in the saturated live-action Batman space, with a large section of the fanbase approving his casting later on. As a result, Chandler’s prediction about Affleck’s Batman proved correct.
Kyle Chandler Set to Play Hal Jordan in DCU’s Lanterns Series
The casting of Hal Jordan for the upcoming DCU series Lanterns has been making rounds in the media. The role was reportedly offered to Josh Brolin. However, the Thanos actor turned down the role, with other big-name stars such as Chris Pine, Matthew McConaughey, and Ewan McGregor also considered for the part.
According to reports, Chandler was cast in the role of Hal Jordan by late September 2024. Initially, the actor was said to be in talks for the role but soon it was reported to be a done deal. As a result, Chandler will be joining the upcoming DCU reboot helmed by James Gunn and Peter Safran under the DC Studios banner.
Given the other big names that were touted to take on the Green Lantern mantle, some fans were left disappointed with Chandler’s casting as Jordan, a fan-favorite comic book character. Moreover, some fans felt that the actor, who is inching closer to his 60s, might not be the right choice for the typically brash and volatile comic book character.
Ultimately, it seems Chandler might face the same scenario that troubled Affleck during the early phase of his Batman tenure. As a result, Chandler’s DCU casting has brought his reaction full circle with some fans doubting his potential as Hal Jordan / Green Lantern. Nonetheless, Chandler is likely to prove the naysayers wrong when Lanterns eventually debuts on HBO.
