‘Lanterns’ season 2 update reveals what must happen before renewal

Peter Safran says an announcement about the HBO series is expected before the end of 2026

HBO’s Lanterns could return for a second season, but DC Studios is making the quality of its next story a key factor in the renewal decision.

Peter Safran, co-chief of DC Studios, said the series has not yet been renewed. Speaking to Collider, he indicated that an update on its future should arrive before the end of 2026, although he did not provide a specific announcement date.

Safran explained that the creative team must develop a follow up capable of matching the standard established by the first season. He said a second season would depend on whether the writers could produce what the studio considers a worthy successor to the successful opening instalment.

The executive also highlighted the value of bringing the Green Lantern property back into the cultural conversation. Lanterns adapts characters and concepts from DC Comics’ Green Lantern franchise, which centres on an intergalactic police force.

The eight episode series stars Kyle Chandler as Hal Jordan and Aaron Pierre as John Stewart. Its first season follows the two Green Lanterns as they investigate a murder mystery on Earth, bringing a grounded crime drama approach to the superhero story.

The season finale aired on October 4 and resolved the central mystery surrounding Hal Jordan’s apparent death. It also revealed the identity of the second Manhunter and explored how Stewart becomes Earth’s sole Green Lantern, setting up developments connected to DC Studios’ forthcoming film Man of Tomorrow.

The show also attracted substantial viewing figures. According to Variety, the seventh episode drew 7 million US viewers during its first three days of availability. Earlier episodes had averaged over 12 million viewers per episode in the United States, with the reported average rising to nearly 19 million when international audiences were included.

Despite that audience interest, a second season is not guaranteed. Safran’s comments suggest the writers’ room must first establish a compelling direction for the story. Fans can expect greater clarity on the series’ future before the year ends, provided the anticipated announcement arrives as indicated.