It is official: DC Comics will begin 2026 with a new Green Lantern, one fans have been clamoring for to return. Since his introduction over 30 years ago, Kyle Rayner has been a fan favorite Lantern, but one that has been largely absent from the spotlight, but all that is set to change in Green Lantern #33.
DC Comics released its solicitations for March, including a first look at Green Lantern #33, or #600 using Legacy numbering. The book’s main story sees Kyle Rayner return to Earth, becoming the planet’s Green Lantern once again. Meanwhile, Hal Jordan embarks on a secret mission.
The special anniversary issue will also feature stories by Green Lantern creators past and present.
Kyle Rayner Debuted in 1994 to a Lot of Fanfare and Even More Controversy
The Way Kyle Was Introduced to the DC Universe Rubbed Some Green Lantern Fans the Wrong Way
In the 1990s, DC Comics began revamping its line of core heroes. Inspired by the back-to-back successes of The Death of Superman and Knightfall, DC took similar approaches to Wonder Woman, Green Arrow and Green Lantern. In each instance, the classic hero was phased out and a new, younger version took over the mantle.
In the case of Green Lantern, it was Kyle Rayner who became the newest ring slinger. While this should have been a cause for celebration, the manner in which it was handled was controversial. Hal Jordan, distraught over Coast City’s destruction, snapped and slaughtered the rest of the Corps. In desperation, Ganthet gave the last Ring to a random person.
Kyle Rayner Was Nearly Lost in the Green Lantern Shuffle
In time, Hal Jordan returned as Earth’s Green Lantern, which relegated Kyle Rayner to the backburner. Furthermore, Guy Gardner and John Stewart returned to the Corps, further shoving Kyle into the background. Meanwhile, new Earth-based Lanterns, such as Simon Baz and Jessic Cruz, were rolled out. Kyle was getting lost in the shuffle.
DC tried to salvage Kyle by making him into the all-powerful Ion, as well as be a White Lantern.
This was unfortunate, as Kyle more than proved himself worthy of a Green Lantern ring. DC tried to salvage Kyle by making him into the all-powerful Ion, as well as be a White Lantern. Kyle also had a starring role in the New 52-set New Guardians. Yet with Hal and others in the spotlight again, Kyle drifted further and further away.
Kyle is Green Lantern for a Generation of Fans
Kyle’s Return as Earth’s Green Lantern Ensures 2026 Will Be a Milestone Year for the Franchise
Now, as the Green Lantern franchise heads to its milestone 600th issue, Kyle Rayner is ready to return to glory, and it is long overdue. For a generation of readers, Kyle is their Green Lantern, and with nostalgia for the 1990s comics scene at a high, now is the perfect time for his glorious comeback.
Green Lantern #600 /33 is on sale March 25 from DC Comics!
