HBO’s highly anticipated series Lanterns has added a major DC Comics villain to its lineup. Ulrich Thomsen has been confirmed to portray Sinestro in the upcoming Green Lantern-inspired show. Sinestro, a key figure in the Green Lantern universe, will appear as a recurring character.
Thomsen joins a star-studded cast led by Kyle Chandler and Aaron Pierre, who will play the show’s protagonists, Hal Jordan and John Stewart, respectively. Other cast members include Kelly Macdonald, Garret Dillahunt, and Poorna Jagannathan.
Plot: A Dark Mystery for Intergalactic Cops
The official description of Lanterns teases a gripping storyline centered on two Green Lanterns. The show follows Hal Jordan, a seasoned member of the Green Lantern Corps, and John Stewart, a rookie recruit, as they team up to investigate a murder in the American heartland.
The series is described as an earth-based mystery with intergalactic elements, blending crime drama with the sci-fi elements fans expect from the Green Lantern mythos.
DC Comic’s Sinestro: A Complex and Iconic Villain
Sinestro is one of the most enduring villains in DC Comics history, first appearing in 1961. A former member of the Green Lantern Corps, Sinestro was expelled for abusing his powers, which led to his transformation into a rogue figure. His relationship with Hal Jordan, once his mentee, adds a layer of complexity to his character.
The official character description highlights Sinestro’s “ruthless yet undeniably charming” nature, as well as his manipulative tendencies and obsession with Hal Jordan. Fans may recall Sinestro’s previous portrayals, including Mark Strong’s performance in the 2011 Green Lantern film and numerous animated adaptations.
Ulrich Thomsen’s Career Highlights
Ulrich Thomsen brings a wealth of experience to the role of Sinestro. Though he is best known for his work in Danish cinema, Thomsen has also made a mark in American television and film.
In the U.S., Thomsen starred in Cinemax’s Banshee and appeared in popular series such as The Blacklist, Counterpart, and The New Pope. His film credits include the James Bond movie The World Is Not Enough and The International. Thomsen is also widely recognized for his role in the acclaimed Danish film Festen (The Celebration).
Production Details and Team Behind DC Studios’ “Lanterns”
Lanterns is an HBO production created in collaboration with Warner Bros. Television and DC Studios. The series was greenlit for eight episodes in June 2024, initially intended as a Max original before being shifted to HBO under a new content strategy.
The show is co-written by Chris Mundy, Damon Lindelof, and Tom King, all of whom serve as executive producers. James Hawes, another executive producer, will direct the first two episodes. Ron Schmidt is also credited as an executive producer.
Anticipation Builds for the DC Series
With a blend of a stellar cast, an iconic villain, and a compelling storyline, Lanterns promises to be a standout addition to HBO’s lineup. The series will offer fans a fresh take on the Green Lantern universe while staying true to its comic book roots.
Lanterns is set to deliver an intriguing mix of action, drama, and mystery, with Sinestro’s addition raising excitement for long-time DC fans.