Lantern Season 1 Episode 8 ending explained: The tragic truth behind Hal Jordan's death in the finale episode. Major update on Season 2

The popular web series Lanterns has come to an end with its eighth and final episode of Season 1. The DC Universe (DCU) series debuted on August 16, and its series finale aired on October 5. The first season of eight episodes wraps up the main mystery surrounding the death of Hal Jordan in a dramatic fashion. For fans wondering what happened in the finale and whether there will be a Season 2, here's everything you need to know.

In India, Lanterns Season 1 is streaming on JioHotstar. The gritty live-action superhero detective series follows legendary intergalactic lawman Hal Jordan, played by Kyle Chandler, and Marine veteran recruit John Stewart, played by Aaron Pierre. The two investigate a gruesome murder in Rushville, Nebraska, which gradually leads them towards a much bigger mystery involving the Manhunters. Spoilers ahead for the Season 1 finale.

Who killed Hal Jordan in Lanterns Episode 8? (spoilers ahead)

One of the biggest questions surrounding Lanterns since the beginning has been who killed Hal Jordan. The premiere had revealed that Hal was found dead after being shot in the head on the bleachers of an empty football field.


The finale finally reveals what happened. Hal had discovered the truth about Noah, the son of Sheriff Kerry Kane. Noah is a Manhunter, and Hal eventually understood his connection to the mysterious events taking place in Rushville.

Kerry realised that Hal knew about her son's identity and feared that the truth would come out. She ultimately shot Hal in the head, killing him and attempting to protect Noah.

Noah is the Manhunter

The finale also reveals the identity of another major character in the mystery. Noah, Kerry's son, is revealed to be a Manhunter.

Earlier in the episode, Noah saves Hal after someone sets his home on fire. He is able to heal Hal, but the situation becomes more complicated when Noah later admits that he was ultimately responsible for Hal's death.

Noah says that he trusted Hal with his secret, but Hal followed him, found the portal and learned what was inside. Noah feared that Hal would reveal to his mother who he really was, so he had to kill him.

Why does Noah ask John to kill him?

Noah's storyline takes an emotional turn when he confronts John Stewart. After taking control of John's Green Lantern ring, Noah opens up about his fears and his desire to live a normal life.

He then makes a disturbing request. Noah asks John to kill him, believing it would be an act of mercy. He refers to what he believes John did for his grandmother Zoe and asks John to do the same for him.

However, John refuses to kill Noah. Instead, he gives him a chance to live a normal moment by allowing him to play in his high school football game.

John eventually comes face-to-face with Guy Gardner, played by Nathan Fillion. By this point, John has figured out what happened to Hal, but he decides not to reveal the entire truth.

When Guy asks about Hal, John simply tells him that Hal died a hero. He then puts forward the idea of working as an independent contractor Lantern for Earth, making it clear that he intends to continue his own path.

John's decision also means that Noah's secret remains protected, at least for the time being.

How does the story of Hal and John end?

The emotional peak of the finale is John’s final conversation with the Halogram version of Hal.

Hal agrees John took a big risk by allowing Noah to live, and warned him what the young Manhunter could grow up to be. But the talk is less about the danger and more about the bond the two built during the season.

John shares his last words with Hal before his digital consciousness vanishes. After that, the two declare their love for one another, providing an emotional conclusion to their complex friendship.

The moment also shows how far their relationship had come during the season. Speaking about the scene, Kyle Chandler previously described the characters as having developed a deep connection through their difficult journey, while Aaron Pierre said the emotional moments between the two actors were particularly meaningful.

Is Lanterns Season 2 happening?

There is some positive news for fans hoping to see more of Lanterns. According to Collider, co-creator Damon Lindelof has "officially confirmed" that Season 2 is in the early stages of development.

However, HBO has not officially renewed the series yet. Discussions about carrying on the story appear to be in progress based on reports of a preliminary writers' room being assembled.

Despite Hal Jordan's fate in Season 1, Lindelof has also hinted that the character's story might go on. Fans will currently have to wait for a formal announcement before Season 2 is confirmed.

Stay tuned!