The upcoming HBO series “Lanterns” has cast a major DC villain.
Variety has confirmed that Ulrich Thomsen has joined the Green Lanterns series in the recurring role of Sinestro. He will appear alongside previously announced leads Kyle Chandler and Aaron Pierre in the series, as well as cast members Kelly Macdonald, Garret Dillahunt and Poorna Jagannathan.
According to the official logline, the show follows “new recruit John Stewart (Aaron Pierre) and Lantern legend Hal Jordan (Kyle Chandler), two intergalactic agents who become involved in a dark, Earth-based mystery while investigating a murder in the American heartland .”
Sinestro is an ancient figure in the Green Lantern world. The character was formerly a member of the Green Lantern Corps before being kicked out for abuse of power. He originally debuted in comic books in 1961. He was previously portrayed by Mark Strong in the 2011 film ‘Green Lantern’ and has been voiced by numerous actors in various animated projects over the years.
The official description of the character reads: “Ruthless yet undeniably charming, Sinestro is a former Green Lantern turned villain. Sinestro’s manipulative nature drives his ongoing obsession with his former mentee, Hal Jordan.
Thomsen has mainly appeared in Danish productions during his career, but previously starred in American series such as ‘Banshee’ on Cinemax and appeared in other shows such as ‘The Blacklist’, ‘Counterpart’ and ‘The New Pope’. His American film roles include the James Bond film ‘The World Is Not Enough’ and ‘The International’. He is also known for his starring role in the Danish film “Festen” (“The Celebration”).
He is represented by Greene Talent, Link Entertainment and Accelerate
“Lanterns” is produced by HBO in association with Warner Bros. Television and DC Studios. The show was picked up by HBO for eight episodes in June 2024. Originally intended as a Max original, the show shifted to HBO as part of a new content diversion plan.
“Lanterns” was co-written by Chris Mundy, Damon Lindelof and Tom King. All three serve as executive producers along with James Hawes, with Hawes also directing the first two episodes. Ron Schmidt is also executive producer. HBO produces in association with Warner Bros. Television and DC Studios.
Deadline first reported Thomsen’s casting.