As “Stargirl” begins its second exciting season, fans are curious to see what classic and favorite DC characters are going to make an appearance. After so many legends graced the small screen throughout the first season, it makes sense that the latest episodes would highlight the members of the Justice Society that didn’t receive much attention the first time around. With the introduction of Jennie-Lynn Hayden, comic readers are anticipating a few references to the classic hero Green Lantern. If you’re unfamiliar with this character, now is time to learn more!
Who Is Alan Scott?
The name Green Lantern is likely familiar to most people, even those only casually familiar with comic books. However, the legacy of this character dates back to 1940, when the character of Alan Scott first took the name in “All-Star Comics” #16. The concept is simple: the hero uses a magic ring to fight evil, but the ring must be periodically charged at a lantern in order to ensure it will work. Though later incarnations of GL would center around space and science fiction, Scott has long been the “magical” version of the DC staple.
A Legacy of Heroism
“Stargirl” executive producer Geoff Johns is one who has developed a reputation for how he handles the legacy of characters at DC. A big fan of the Justice Society and Golden Age characters, Johns has included classic heroes in almost all his comics, films and television programs. Though Green Lantern has been notoriously absent from DC movies since the failed 2011 film, the huge following of the character means that Scott’s possible appearances on “Stargirl” are likely to whet some appetites. The idea has become more tangible with the introduction of the character of Jennie-Lynn.
Who Is Jennie-Lynn?
In the world of DC Comics, Jennie-Lynn Hayden is the name of Alan Scott’s daughter. Introduced in the 1980s, Hayden took the name Jade and exhibited powers similar to her father’s ring. Displaying green skin as a result of her powers, Jade is able to create structures out of light and fly. She also has a twin brother, Obsidian, who has the opposing ability to control darkness and shadow. On “Stargirl,” Jennie-Lynn is searching for her missing brother, which is an indication that Green Lantern and Obsidian are on the horizon.
A Twist on a Classic
Alan Scott has also been prevalent in the comic scene in recent years due to an editorial decision DC made several years back. After relaunching their entire line for a brief period from 2011 to 2016, DC reintroduced many Golden Age characters as younger versions of themselves. In doing this, the company also decided to make Alan Scott openly gay. After returning to the status quo in 2021’s Infinite Frontier,” it was decided to merge both versions of Scott.
Alan Scott now retains his Golden Age history, though has recently come out of the closet as an older man and is grappling with this fact with his children’s help. This side of his character could make for some interesting and engaging storylines this season on “Stargirl.” Whether or not these classic characters appear on screen this season is still to be seen, but knowing how much history the heroes have means it is highly likely.
