The latest episode of HBO Max’s "Lanterns" series, titled "OutKast," has revealed that John Stewart's mother, Bernadette (Jasmine Cephas Jones), was the primary force behind his rigorous Green Lantern training. This revelation shifts the narrative focus from his father, John Stewart Sr. (J. Alphonse Nicholson), who initially appeared to be the one implementing the intense upbringing.
Cephas Jones, in an interview, called Bernadette's role in initiating her son's training a "badass" and "beautiful love letter to mothers." She highlighted how the character is depicted as an unsung hero, a woman who makes the impossible happen. The actress emphasized Bernadette's proactive role, stating that she "puts her foot on the gas pretty, pretty hard" to ensure her son's readiness.
The episode depicts Bernadette convincing John Sr. to shoot an apple off young John's head, a harrowing scene that underscores her determination to prepare him for his destiny as a Green Lantern. Cephas Jones noted the pressure she felt stepping into such a pivotal role on her first day of filming, which included a scene where she was shot at by her young son.
"Lanterns" Episode 3 also addresses the potential fan reaction to the unconventional parenting methods, such as gifting a 5-year-old John a rifle and a Green Lantern suit instead of crayons. Cephas Jones explained that Bernadette's actions stem from a place of perceived necessity, especially after witnessing her family's struggles and the racial implications of asking a Black man in America if he is afraid, a question posed by the Guardians.
Bernadette's arrangement with a Guardian, portrayed by Laura Linney, ultimately leads to John being offered a diamond, a resolution that suggests the difficult upbringing was for the greater good of his fate and humanity. Cephas Jones stated that Bernadette's decisions were a way for her to regain power for herself and her family, viewing it as a form of healing in response to John Sr.'s experiences. "The Stewarts believed that he is the chosen one, but we had to make him believe it," Cephas Jones said, underscoring the family's collective faith in John's destiny.
The first three episodes of "Lanterns" are currently available on HBO Max, with new episodes premiering on Sundays.