When Does John Stewart Get His Ring in ‘Lanterns’ Episode 5?

Fans of ‘Lanterns‘ expecting a straightforward origin story for John Stewart were in for a surprise. Episode 5 of the HBO Max series finally addresses the question that has lingered since Guy Gardner appeared in ‘Superman’ with the ring, and the reveal is far more emotional than anticipated.

This episode centers not on John Stewart’s ascent but on his refusal. Aaron Pierre’s John Stewart turns down the chance to become Earth’s Green Lantern, a significant twist for a show that seemed to be leading to that very moment. This decision hits hard for longtime comic fans who were anticipating a triumphant moment.

The crux of Stewart’s rejection stems from the Guardians of the Universe and their manipulation of both Hal Jordan and John Stewart. After a violent encounter with the Manhunter, John refuses to serve the Guardians, leaving Earth without a Green Lantern protector.

The emotional weight of the confrontation peaks when Stewart faces Lianna, the Guardian portrayed by Laura Linney. Upon realizing she has deceived and manipulated him throughout his mission—and likely his entire life—John Stewart decides against taking the power ring, telling the Guardians he will not do their bidding. He confronts her about Hal’s betrayal, emphasizing that neither of them remembers the original purpose behind wanting the ring.

This confrontation is rooted in a deeper backstory. Lianna suggested raising baby John Stewart to eliminate fear, subjecting him to a traumatic childhood filled with tasks designed to eradicate fear, including dangerous stunts. Once Stewart comprehends the extent of this manipulation, his decision to walk away becomes not just a twist but an inevitable conclusion.

With Stewart stepping aside, the path is clear for one of the DCU’s most unpredictable characters to take his place. The Guardians then turn to Guy Gardner as their next candidate for Earth’s sector, with his appearances in ‘Peacemaker’ and ‘Superman’ confirming this arrangement has been in place for years.

The moment of rejection is portrayed with significant impact. John meets Lianna in a bar, delivers Zoe’s heart as evidence of her being the Manhunter, and states it’s ‘your sins, and consequences,’ before turning his back on both Lianna and the Green Lantern mantle, leaving the Power Ring on the table. This powerful image is striking for a series that has spent five episodes building toward Stewart claiming that very ring.

Interestingly, the ring shown in the final moments of Episode 5 appears different from the one worn by Nathan Fillion’s Gardner in previous appearances, hinting at more story to unfold before Gardner dons it.

‘Lanterns’ has always navigated between two timelines, and Episode 5 marks a pivotal shift. The episode concludes the 2016 storyline, with the upcoming sixth episode teasing a transition to 2026, allowing the series to delve into solving Hal Jordan’s murder.

This murder mystery initiated the entire series. The show premiered on HBO and HBO Max on August 16, 2026, with its first episode ending in a shocking discovery: John Stewart and Sheriff Kerry find Hal Jordan dead on football bleachers in Rushville, Nebraska, with a bullet wound and his Green Lantern ring missing.

The detail of the missing ring now carries even greater significance. As the narrative shifts to 2026, John Stewart investigates Hal Jordan’s mysterious death, with the unresolved question of how Stewart will eventually reclaim the ring looming large. Given his complicated history with it, this investigation is likely to weigh heavily on him.

There’s also a broader narrative reason to believe Stewart’s journey with the ring isn’t over. It would be surprising if the series concludes without John Stewart reclaiming the ring, especially since he is confirmed to appear in ‘Man of Tomorrow’.

Not all viewers are pleased with the series’ reimagining of Stewart’s comic book history. Some reviews suggest the show alters the process of how Green Lanterns are selected, labeling John Stewart’s new origin story as perplexing, with the third episode deemed the season’s weakest.

Nevertheless, the emotional stakes of Stewart’s rejection have resonated with many viewers, igniting discussions about whether he made the right choice. The show’s willingness to subvert expectations—first by killing Hal Jordan in the premiere and now by having Stewart refuse the ring—has kept audiences engaged and guessing.

With Guy Gardner’s ring appearing distinct from the one left on the table, and Stewart now entering 2026 with a murder to solve, ‘Lanterns’ has crafted one of the more intriguing slow-burn narratives in contemporary superhero television. Do you believe John Stewart deserves another chance at the ring, or has Guy Gardner already claimed his position as Earth’s Green Lantern?