Since Ryan Reynolds first slipped into the role of Marvel’s wisecracking superhero, it is hard to remember when he was not synonymous with the character. Yet, every now and then, an iteration comes along that transports fans back to his earlier, more unexpected superhero days. This time, it was James Gunn who pulled the trigger. Though Marvel and DC Comics have long been at odds, actors who have dipped their toes in both are not as common. While discussing his re-imagination of the DC Universe, Gunn revealed he had once suggested Reynolds return to this super-fold.

While the specifics of his comeback are up for debate, what truly got fans in stitches was Reynolds’ iconic response.

It was not until 2024 that Ryan Reynolds ascended to the near-mythical Marvel Jesus status. But the DC Universe is not content letting him solely stay in that slate. During a conversation with Josh Horowitz on the Happy Sad Confused podcast, the host was buzzing with excitement over the upcoming Lanterns but could not resist pointing out that live-action Green Lantern still has not gotten its due. 

Chuckling over how Horowitz hoped Reynolds would not come after him, Gunn revealed the first thing he did after landing the DC job was text Reynolds if he would like to return. Unexpected to none, Reynolds, in his characteristic wit, replied, “get the f--k out of here.” Amidst the rib-tickling laughter, Gunn confirmed it was all in good fun. So, rest assured, the MCU can keep its Jesus, while the DC Universe looks content to playfully revisit his Green Lantern past.

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That said, Gunn shed some light on the upcoming Lanterns, explaining how the series will be more “grounded” than ever.

In his recent conversation with Josh Horowitz on the Happy Sad Confused podcast, James Gunn enlightened DC fans about the Lanterns series, following the host’s anticipation of it. Although there have been concerns flying about the series, Gunn was not exactly open to revealing it all. However, he did confirm the series was “grounded” in a way that prompts the question of what and how they would be “if the Green Lanterns were real.”

Since the concerns spark from the update that the series is described as “terrestrial,” Gunn argued, it is because the story inherently takes place on Earth. He elaborates that Hal and John remain cosmic champions, but the narrative Lanterns have chosen is Earthbound. As it is not in the “outer space,” there would not be “a thousand Green Lanterns.” Thus, even though Ryan Reynolds may not return, Gunn’s insights still have a way of keeping up the anticipation of the Lanterns. 

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