Lanterns Penultimate Episode Reveals Hal Jordan’s Suicide and Generational Trauma

Key points

• The episode revealed that Hal Jordan’s father, Martin, died by suicide, passing a hereditary depression to Hal, known as the 'Jordan Boys’ Legacy.'
• The Halogram, a backup consciousness of Hal, helps John Stewart investigate Hal’s murder and reveals that Hal’s 'fearlessness' was actually a symptom of being 'broken.'
• The episode introduced a new suspect, Noah Macon, and advanced the mystery of Hal’s murder, with the finale airing on September 28.

Background

Lanterns, a DC series created by Chris Mundy, Damon Lindelof, and Tom King, premiered on August 16, 2026. The series follows John Stewart and Hal Jordan as they investigate a rural murder. The show has been praised for its fresh take on Hal Jordan and its exploration of mental health issues in superheroes.

How outlets are covering it

Deadline and The Ringer emphasize the emotional depth and character development in the penultimate episode, highlighting the bond between John Stewart and the Halogram. IndieWire focuses on the mystery and the introduction of new suspects, while SlashFilm critiques the retcon of Hal Jordan’s backstory, arguing that it aligns with Tom King’s themes of depression and suicide in superheroes. The outlets agree that the episode is a significant moment in the series, but they differ in their emphasis on the emotional versus the narrative aspects.

Why it matters

The penultimate episode of Lanterns is significant because it recontextualizes Hal Jordan’s character and introduces a new layer to the mystery of his murder. The revelation of his father’s suicide and the hereditary depression adds depth to the character and the series, making it a notable moment in the show's run.

What to watch

The finale of Lanterns airs on September 28, 2026, at 9 p.m. ET/PT on HBO. The episode is expected to resolve the mystery of Hal Jordan’s murder and conclude the season's arc.