I Can't Believe James Gunn's DC Universe Is Already Leaning Into Its Controversial Green Lantern Design Decision Months Before Nathan Fillion's Superman Debut (But I Love It)

The DCU has already doubled down on its divisive design for Nathan Fillion’s Green Lantern in Superman, and I’m delighted by it. The DC Universe is undergoing a significant transformation under the guidance of James Gunn, with audiences eagerly anticipating the debut movie, Superman, slated for release on July 11, 2025. Among the many exciting developments is the introduction of Nathan Fillion as Guy Gardner, one of the Green Lanterns, sporting the character’s iconic haircut. Subsequently, the DCU has leaned into Guy’s hairstyle even further, in a charming new promotional image.

Guy Gardner, a character introduced in 1968, has often been portrayed with a distinctive bowl-cut hairstyle and a brash personality, setting him apart from other Green Lanterns like Hal Jordan and John Stewart. In Superman (2025), Nathan Fillion takes on the role of Gardner, bringing his unique charm to the character. The trailer for Superman depicted Fillion donning Gardner’s iconic bowl cut, staying true to the character’s classic comic book appearance.

2025’s Green Lantern Teaser Shows The DCU Is Doubling Down On Its Guy Gardner Design

The DCU Put The Bowl In Super Bowl

A promotional clip released on the official Superman Twitter during Super Bowl LIX featured Nathan Fillion as Guy Gardner, complete with the character’s signature bowl-cut hairstyle. In the Superman (2025) teaser, Gardner seemingly quips, “The only bowl I need,” playfully referencing both the Super Bowl and his distinctive haircut. This deliberate choice to embrace Guy Gardner’s classic look indicates the DCU’s commitment to honoring the source material, even when it involves unconventional design elements.

By showcasing Guy Gardner’s portrayal months ahead of the film’s release, the DCU signals confidence in its creative direction and a willingness to engage with fan expectations head-on. It’s a glorious celebration of the character’s less than favorable characteristics, and a bold move to specify something so contentious in the build-up to a movie’s release.

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This is something extremely pertinent to James Gunn’s vision of the DCU, in which he wants to explore niche characters who don’t fit the usual superhero fare. Guy Gardner is prime for this kind of depiction, and the gleeful Super Bowl promo demonstrates this perfectly, and that’s why I’m excited. Rather than engage in frantic reshoots like the MCU’s Captain America: Brave New World, Gunn has doubled down and accentuated a vital aspect of a character so often forgotten.

Why The DCU’s Guy Gardner Design Received Mixed Reactions

Not Everybody Was As Thrilled About Guy Gardner’s Haircut

Guy Gardner with a bat made of green light in a DC comic.

The decision to faithfully replicate Guy Gardner’s classic appearance has elicited a spectrum of responses from DCU audiences. Supporters appreciate the homage to the original comics, viewing it as a testament to the DCU’s respect for its rich history. They argue that maintaining Gardner’s traditional look preserves the character’s identity and distinguishes him within the Green Lantern Corps.

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Conversely, critics contend that the bowl cut appears outdated and may not resonate with contemporary audiences. Some suggest that a modernized interpretation could make the character more relatable and visually appealing. Other critics have pointed to the haircut being too distracting or just plain silly, even comparing him to the Addams Family‘s Uncle Fester. This debate underscores the broader challenge of balancing fidelity to source material with the evolving tastes of a modern viewership.

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The DCU Has Introduced Some Strange Characters Already

James Gunn’s tenure with the DCU has demonstrated a knack for bringing lesser-known and unconventional characters to the forefront, endearing them to audiences through thoughtful storytelling and character development. A prime example is the animated series Creature Commandos. The series features a team of monstrous figures, including Doctor Phosphorus, a character with a translucent, glowing skeleton.

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Despite his obscure status and peculiar appearance, Doctor Phosphorus has become an audience favorite, with his backstory and personality explored in depth, adding layers to his character beyond his visual design. This success illustrates the DCU’s ability to take risks with eccentric characters, transforming them into compelling figures that resonate with audiences. Similarly, the ensemble cast of Creature Commandos includes other unconventional characters like G.I. Robot and the Bride of Frankenstein, each brought to life with distinct personalities and rich narratives.

The positive reception of these characters suggests that audiences are open to embracing unique and quirky heroes when they are presented with authenticity and depth. This track record bodes well for the portrayal of Guy Gardner, indicating that the DCU’s commitment to embracing the full spectrum of its character roster can lead to fresh and engaging storytelling opportunities. By embracing both the celebrated and eccentric aspects of its heroes, the DCU continues to expand its narrative horizons, offering audiences a diverse and enriched cinematic experience with its debut movie Superman (2025).

Source: Superman