From Ryan Reynolds to Nathan Fillion: Every Live-Action Green Lantern, Ranked

The Green Lantern Corps, wielding green power rings fueled by willpower, has thrilled DC Comics fans for decades as cosmic protectors. Bringing these heroes to live-action, however, has been a rocky journey, with only a handful of actors stepping into the role across TV and film.

From low-budget TV specials to modern blockbusters, live-action Green Lanterns have varied in execution and impact. This list ranks every actor who has portrayed a Green Lantern in live-action, from least to most successful, based on performance, character fit, and contribution to the franchise’s legacy.

Matthew Settle as Green Lantern (‘Justice League of America’, 1997)

In the TV pilot ‘Justice League of America’, Matthew Settle played a generic Green Lantern with minimal screen time. The pilot’s low production value, clunky dialogue, and poor effects gave him little to work with, resulting in a forgettable portrayal that never captured the hero’s cosmic scope.

Settle’s performance felt stiff, and the show’s failure to secure a series left his Green Lantern as a minor footnote. With no depth or memorable moments, this portrayal ranks at the bottom of live-action Green Lanterns.

Howard Murphy as Green Lantern (‘Legends of the Superheroes’, 1979)

Howard Murphy’s Green Lantern appeared in the campy TV special ‘Legends of the Superheroes’, a low-budget production with a comedic, almost parody-like tone. His role was small, with cheesy lines and outdated effects that failed to showcase the character’s power or gravitas.

Murphy tried to bring energy, but the silly script and lack of focus on his character made the performance forgettable. This Green Lantern’s brief appearance is a relic of a less ambitious era for superhero adaptations.

Ryan Reynolds as Hal Jordan (‘Green Lantern’, 2011)

Ryan Reynolds starred as Hal Jordan in the ambitious but flawed film ‘Green Lantern’. His natural charisma couldn’t save a messy script, subpar CGI, and a weak villain, which led to the movie’s poor reception among fans and critics.

Reynolds’ comedic style didn’t fully align with Hal Jordan’s bold, fearless persona, making the character feel inconsistent. Despite some heartfelt moments, the film’s failure and Reynolds’ own later jabs at the role place this portrayal low on the list.

Nathan Fillion as Guy Gardner (‘Superman’, 2025)

Nathan Fillion plays Guy Gardner in James Gunn’s ‘Superman’, delivering a standout performance as the brash, cocky Green Lantern. His humor and charm, paired with the character’s signature bowl cut and creative ring constructs, bring Gardner’s flawed but compelling personality to life.

Fillion’s prior experience voicing Hal Jordan in animated films adds authenticity, and his chemistry with the ‘Superman’ cast elevates the role. This bold, authentic take makes Fillion’s Guy Gardner the best live-action Green Lantern yet.

Who’s your top live-action Green Lantern, and what makes their performance stand out? Drop your thoughts in the comments!