Lanterns episode 3 has been released on HBO Max — and, after two weeks of teasing, it finally pulls back the veil on the mysterious extraterrestrials known as the Guardians of the Universe.

Until now, the Guardians have been something of an enigma in the HBO TV Original. However, its latest chapter, titled 'OutKast', gives us a much clearer picture of these beings and why they want John Stewart to succeed Hal Jordan as Earth's Green Lantern.

So, who are they? Where did they come from? Do they have powers? What's their connection to the Green Lantern Corps? And why are they obsessed with Stewart replacing Jordan? Let's take a closer look at the Guardians' comic book history and role in this HBO Max sci-fi crime drama.

Who are the Guardians of the Universe in DC Comics?

Created by DC icons Gil Kane and Jeff Broome during the Silver Age of Comic Books, the Guardians of the Universe are an immortal alien race depicted as blue-skinned humanoids originally from the planet Maltus. However, after a time-bending experiment — one that leads to the birth of the DC Multiverse and the anti-matter universe — goes awry, the Maltusians relocated to a new world named Oa and rebranded themselves as the Guardians of the Universe.

The Guardians gave themselves a new objective following the aforementioned and ill-fated time-based test: combat evil and create an orderly universe.

With this goal in mind, they created sentient androids known as the Manhunters to patrol the universe and combat any threats they encounter. However, the Manhunters soon came to resent their creators, committed mass genocide in a harrowing event known as the Massacre of Sector-666, and later attempted a coup, which the Guardians quelled. For more on the Manhunters and their role in this show, read my Manhunters in Lanterns explained piece.

In the wake of the Manhunters' uprising, the Guardians started afresh and created the Green Lantern Corps. A new interstellar police agency, its members carry out the Manhunters' former duties of watching over the universe and tackling anyone who threatens the peace. Two Green Lanterns guard each of the 3,600 sectors that make up the known universe, meaning there are 7,200 space cops in total.

Abilities-wise, the Guardians are some of the most powerful beings in DC Comics. Their powerset includes — but isn't limited to — the ability to fly, time travel, and phase through objects; telepathy; astral projection; invulnerability to conventional weapons; energy manipulation; reality warping; size manipulation; omniscience; and force field projection.

When and why did the Guardians choose John Stewart to be Earth's next Green Lantern?

Now that we've learned about the Guardians' comic book history, let's see how they factor into the DC Universe (DCU) TV show's story.

For starters, when Stewart is interviewed by a Guardian named Lianna (played by Laura Linney) for the chance to become Jordan's successor, we quickly learn that there are only 11 Guardians left. There were 12, but as episode 2 revealed, the former Green Lantern known as Sinestro killed one of them. You can learn more about him via my Sinestro in Lanterns explained article.

Anyway, by way of Lanterns' flashback-heavy third episode, the Guardians had originally tried to recruit Stewart's father — aka John Stewart Sr — as Earth's first Green Lantern when Stewart Jr was a baby. However, Stewart Sr failed the Guardians' 'Are you afraid?' test, so he wasn't chosen.

Traumatized by that cosmic event, Stewart Sr becomes a danger to his loved ones, so he's kicked out of the family home by his wife Bernadette. She doesn't believe her husband's claims surrounding the aforementioned event, either — until Lianna unexpectedly shows up to apologize for the trouble that the Guardians caused the Stewart family.

To keep things brief, Lianna indicates — over a late-night cup of coffee — that Stewart Jr has the makings of being a future Green Lantern. The reason? His parents are formidable individuals, so it stands to reason that, based on his genetic make-up alone, Stewart Jr would be cut from the same cloth.

After Bernadette tells all of this to Stewart Sr, they decide to raise Stewart Jr to not only be fearless, but also groom him so he will become a Green Lantern when he's older. So begins a years-long mission that sees them treat their youngest son differently from his older siblings. They train him to be undaunted and brainwash him into thinking it's his destiny to be a Green Lantern.

A couple of decades later, Stewart Jr is — the emotional detachment issues born from his unique upbringing notwithstanding — well on his way to becoming the so-called 'chosen one', too.

As the saying goes, though, the best-laid plans often go awry. Now a decorated US Marine sniper, Stewart Jr is sent on a months-long mission to assassinate a prominent money launderer known as 'Gray Wolf' in the Kamchatka Peninsula. Long story short, he fails said assignment when Hal Jordan, who was eventually chosen as Earth's first Green Lantern, surprisingly arrives and arrests the highly sought-after criminal. Forced to take the blame as part of a government cover-up, Stewart Jr is dishonorably discharged by the military.

Dejected after seeing his chances of becoming a Green Lantern ruined, Stewart Jr receives an unlikely pep talk from his mom, who also tells him that he's going to art school. Remember, his real passion has always been drawing, so to somewhat make up for her terrible parenting, Bernadette applied to a nearby university on his behalf. After being accepted by said university, Stewart Jr moves on from his Green Lantern dream.

Or so he thinks. Again, to keep things short, Stewart Jr is selected for what appears to be a special university project. However, the man he's trying to impress with his art skills is actually a male Guardian who, after Stewart Jr demonstrates his ability to construct his father's watch using a Green Lantern ring, is sent to be interviewed by Lianna.

Why do the Guardians want John Stewart to replace Hal Jordan?

For myriad reasons; but two specific reasons stand out among all others.

First — and perhaps most importantly — the Guardians are concerned about Jordan's relationship with Sinestro. Sure, Jordan was the one who defeated Sinestro after the latter killed one of the Guardians, but they know Jordan still harbors affection for his former mentor.

I wouldn't be shocked if they knew Jordan had visited Sinestro for information about the Manhunters in Lanterns episode 2, either. If they do, they'll be even more worried because there's no telling what Sinestro could do or say to Jordan to win him over to Sinestro's cause.

The other reason is Jordan's reckless nature. During their chat, Lianna tells Stewart that, despite regularly being told not to interfere in terrestrial matters, Jordan continues to do so. Replacing Jordan with Stewart would mean that these impulsive interventions would stop because Stewart wouldn't defy his bosses' wishes.

After successfully passing his Green Lantern interview, all eyes are now on how and when Stewart will succeed Jordan as Earth's primary Green Lantern in the DCU Chapter One TV series. Based on what Jordan tells Stewart at the end of this episode, though, he won't go quietly into that good night. Well, until Lanterns' 2026 storyline, when Jordan is murdered by someone, anyway...

The People v Gorilla Grodd is officially in the works at DC Studios.

Initially positioned as a Superman spin-off show tentatively titled DC Crime, the forthcoming crime mockumentary series will star Jimmy Olsen and many other familiar faces from Metropolis-based news outlet The Daily Planet. It'll also feature the live-action debut of Gorilla Grodd, aka one of The Flash's most famous adversaries, in a DC comic book project.

With development on the HBO Max program underway, I suspect you're *ahem* going ape over this announcement and want to know more about it. You've come to the right place, then, because you'll find more information on the DC Universe (DCU) TV show below, including its confirmed cast and plot brief. So, here's what we know so far about The People v Gorilla Grodd (TPvGG).

The People v Gorilla Grodd release window prediction

The People v Gorilla Grodd was only announced in mid-August, so you won't be shocked to read that it doesn't have a firm release date yet.

It might not be long before the cameras begin to roll on the DCU TV series, though. Indeed, while some of its cast members were shooting Man of Tomorrow, aka the sequel to last year's Superman movie, DC Studios co-head and Man of Tomorrow's director James Gunn has confirmed that principal photography has wrapped on that film. It's possible, then, that TPvGG could enter full production before the end of 2026.

If filming starts soon, we could see TPvGG in late 2027. However, with what I'd expect to be a lengthy post-production process, I think it's more likely it'll debut on HBO Max, aka one of the world's best streaming services, in early 2028.

The People v Gorilla Grodd trailer: is there one?

No. If my early 2028 release window prediction is correct, I doubt we'll see one before the end of 2027. Whenever a teaser gets shared online by DC Studios, I'll update this section.

The People v Gorilla Grodd confirmed cast

Possible spoilers follow for The People v Gorilla Grodd.

Here's the DCU Chapter One TV series' confirmed cast so far:

• Skyler Gisondo as Jimmy Olsen
• Beck Bennett as Steve Lombard
• Mikaela Hoover as Cat Grant
• Wendell Pierce as Perry White
• Jimmy Tatro as Gorilla Grodd
• Mary Holland as TBC
• Eduardo Franco as TBC
• Arian Moayed as TBC
• Dan Perrault as TBC
• Andrew Leeds as TBC
• Tim Baltz as TBC

The first four names, all of whom work at The Daily Planet, will be familiar to anyone who's seen 2025's Superman movie. Gisondo had a fairly large supporting role in that film, while Bennett, Hoover, and Pierce only appeared in a couple of scenes.

On the newcomers' front, Tatro (American Vandal) is the only actor whose role has been announced. He'll play Gorilla Grodd, aka the hyperintelligent and telepathic ape this crime-comedy series focuses on.

As for the other six stars, their character identities are being kept under wraps. However, industry insider Apocalyptic Horseman has claimed Moayed (Wonder Man, Ms Marvel) will portray the prosecutor who helped to put Grodd behind bars. Meanwhile, per Apocalyptic Horseman again, Franco (Stranger Things) is playing a close friend of Grodd's.

Could other individuals possibly make an appearance? David Corenswet's Clark Kent/Superman and Rachel Brosnahan's Lois Lane, who are also Daily Planet reporters, are surprisingly conspicuous by their absence from the cast list. It'll be interesting to see whether they're added in a cameo or supporting role at a later date. Or, depending on when TPvGG is set in relation to Man of Tomorrow, if they'll have to sit this one out.

Elsewhere, given this series is based around Grodd, it would be surprising if Barry Allen/The Flash didn't show up. That said, Gunn and fellow DCU overseer Peter Safran haven't said if they'll introduce their version of the Scarlett Speedster anytime soon, so he might just be referenced in The People v Gorilla Grodd rather than appear in the flesh.

The People v Gorilla Grodd story synopsis

Here's the official logline for TPvGG: "A super-intelligent ape is convicted of murdering his father, the King of Gorilla City. In an eight-part 'true' crime docuseries, the Daily Planet’s Jimmy Olsen reopens the case, investigating whether Gorilla Grodd was wrongly convicted in one of Metropolis’ most famous murder trials."

That would've been enough to go on for now. However, DC Studios released an even longer story synopsis as part of the above X/Twitter post.

"The People v. Gorilla Grodd will take a fresh, 360-degree look at the case, revealing the 'lesser-seen side' of the hyper-intelligent ape, according to the film's first-time director Jimmy Olsen," it reads. "Olsen was granted unprecedented, exclusive access to interview Grodd inside Stryker's Island Penitentiary for the documentary.

"Grodd has long claimed his innocence in the murder and brain consumption of his father, King Grodd — a crime he was convicted of in March 2021 and has remained incarcerated for ever since. The series will take an in-depth look at the investigation, featuring brand new reporting from members of the Daily Planet staff, as well as interviews with witnesses and experts on both Grodd's and the Metropolis District Attorney's side of the case, including Grodd's new counsel at the Metropolis Freedom Project."

As for what else we know about TPvGG, it'll be a half-hour comedy comprising eight episodes, and produced by DC Studios in collaboration with Warner Bros. Television.

How will The People v Gorilla Grodd impact the DCU?

Nobody knows. Right now, we can't say where it'll sit on the DCU timeline, whether it'll be a standalone project that doesn't significantly affect DCU Chapter One's overarching narrative, and/or whether putting Grodd front and center will set the stage for The Flash's eventual introduction in this cinematic franchise.

Until Gunn or someone else gives us some firm details on the above, your guess is as good as mine. Hopefully, it won't be too long before more light is shed on TPvGG and its potential impact on the DCU.

In the meantime, read up on everything we know so far about Man of Tomorrow, get the full lowdown on Creature Commandos season 2, and find out whether Peacemaker season 3 will ever be made.

We're officially a quarter of the way through Lanterns' first season — and, judging by the sheer volume of discussions I've seen online about it, millions are really enjoying the DC Universe's (DCU) latest TV show.

If you're among that number, you'll want to know when the sci-fi crime drama's next chapter, titled 'OutKast', will hit a streaming platform near you. This week's entry will fill us in on John Stewart's upbringing and apparent 'chosen one' status as a future Green Lantern, too, so you definitely won't want to miss it.

So, here's when and where you can watch Lanterns episode 3.

When does episode 3 of Lanterns come out?

Lanterns' third installment will arrive on Sunday, August 30 at 6pm PT / 9pm ET in the US and Canada.

The DCU Chapter One show's forthcoming episode will also be available to stream in other nations, but won't premiere outside of North and South America until Monday, August 31. If you live elsewhere, these are the launch times you need to be aware of:

• US — Sunday, August 30 at 6pm PT / 9pm ET
• Canada — Sunday, August 30 at 6pm PT / 9pm ET
• UK — Monday, August 31 at 2am BST
• India — Monday, August 31 at 6:30am IST
• Singapore — Monday, August 31 at 9am SGT
• Australia — Monday, August 31 at 11am AEST
• New Zealand — Monday, August 31 at 1pm NZST

Where can I watch Lanterns episode 3?

Like the two episodes that preceded it, Lanterns' third chapter will drop on HBO Max, aka one of the best streaming services around, in countries where this platform is available.

Not a subscriber or live somewhere HBO Max hasn't launched yet? Don't worry, because the Kyle Chandler and Aaron Pierre-fronted TV show is also set to air on other streamers, TV networks, and channels. Read on to find out which one you'll need to tune in to:

• US — HBO and HBO Max
• Canada — Crave
• UK — HBO Max, Sky Atlantic, and Now TV
• India — JioHotstar
• Singapore — HBO Max
• Australia — HBO Max
• New Zealand — HBO Max

When will new episodes of Lanterns be released?

If it wasn't obvious by now, new entries will make their debut every Sunday in the Americas and every Monday on other continents. That'll remain the case until the season 1 finale comes out in early October, too.

Want to know the exact launch dates for each installment? Of course you do. Check out the list below for more details:

• Lanterns episode 1 — out now
• Lanterns episode 2 — out now
• Lanterns episode 3 — August 30/31
• Lanterns episode 4 — September 6/7
• Lanterns episode 5 — September 13/14
• Lanterns episode 6 — September 20/21
• Lanterns episode 7 — September 27/28
• Lanterns episode 8 — October 4/5

A man and his sidekicks time travel through an infinite number of universes, arriving to unknown circumstances where futuristic drama inevitably lays in wait. Am I talking about Stuart Fails to Save the Universe on HBO Max, or legendary BBC series Doctor Who?

At face value, they clearly could be one and the same. But while The Big Bang Theory spinoff is just getting started with its debut 10 episodes (though season 2 has already been renewed), Doctor Who has been regenerating for decades since 1963... but is now stuck.

Not only has Russell T Davies — the man responsible for reviving the IP in the early 2000s — officially left, but the series has been put out to tender. This means that the broadcaster (BBC) asks independent production companies to pitch ideas and bid to make the program instead of using their own in-house team or current producer.

In short, absolutely anything could happen to Doctor Who over the next few years, including it being dropped completely. Yes, this is a worst case scenario, but you don't need the Doctor to tell you that nothing is impossible.

As we enter week six of Stuart Fails to Save the Universe airing on the small screen, something the cast told me has birthed a slightly unhinged idea: what if the two shows crossed over in an unexpected act of heroism?

Stuart Fails to Save the Universe and Doctor Who feels like a partnership waiting to happen — and it could help the BBC

"We're like four inept Doctor Who's," Lauren Lapkus (Denise) tells me. "The whole show has very heavy Doctor Who vibes." And you know what? She's right.

Let's start with the obvious. Doctor Who is actively looking for new production companies to pitch fresh ideas. Stuart Fails to Save the Universe is the new kid on the sci-fi block, armed with some of the best sitcom creators in the world and an overarching idea that could last for seasons upon seasons.

From those facts alone, it sounds like a conversation between HBO and BBC needs to happen. Add to this that the two distributors have worked together before — on Half Man, Industry and His Dark Materials, just to name a few — and we only have more solid reasoning.

Doctor Who has even been 'Americanised' before now thanks to the BBC's previous partnership on the show with Disney+. Was this the right fit? No, but audiences have certainly got a taste of what the Doctor can be.

Don't forget, Stuart Fails to Save the Universe is also steeped in classic sci-fi lore thanks to The Big Bang Theory. Take a look at how many references there were below and you'll realize both characters and creators had an inside-out understanding of the genre its built from.

So watching our new Doctor, whoever that ends up being, collide with Stuart and the gang doesn't seem too far-fetched to me. Even an alternate version of Stuart being the Doctor himself is something that I wouldn't question. Doctor Who obviously isn't a sitcom, but it's always been funny... so all of this should be enough to Chuck Lorre to come knocking.

Realistically, I think a singular crossover episodes is as much as we'd ever get here, but I'm daring to dream — mostly because as a Brit, I don't want to see Doctor Who have a neglected, unfitting end completely out of its own control.

There is no such thing as a stupid idea in Stuart Fails to Save the Universe — and I'm starting to think that there's no such thing as a boring idea, either.

As the gang leave behind their tribal oasis from episode 5 — which, let's face it, they ruined — we're back in a familiar suburban setting this week. The difference? Everyone eats plants and grass as if they were a Happy Meal at McDonald's.

No fast food favoritism here, but you get the idea. So, when does Stuart Fails to Save the Universe episode 6 arrive on HBO Max?

What time can I watch Stuart Fails to Save the Universe episode 6 on HBO Max?

For US viewers, Stuart Fails to Save the Universe episode 6 will drop on Thursday, August 27 at 6pm PT/ 9pm ET.

Internationally, you're looking out for these timings:

• US – Thursday, August 27 at 6pm PT / 9pm ET
• Canada – Thursday, August 27 at 6pm PT / 9pm ET
• UK – Friday, August 28 at 2am BST
• India – Friday, August 28 at 6:30am IST
• Singapore – Friday, August 28 at 9am SGT
• Australia – Friday, August 28 at 11am AEST
• New Zealand – Friday, August 28 at 1pm NZST

When do new episodes of Stuart Fails to Save the Universe come out?

New episodes of Stuart Fails to Save the Universe will make landfall every Thursday in the US and on Fridays everywhere else. Here are the all-important dates you need to know about:

• Episode 1: out now
• Episode 2: out now
• Episode 3: out now
• Episode 4: out now
• Episode 5: out now
• Episode 6: August 27
• Episode 7: September 3
• Episode 8: September 10
• Episode 9: September 17
• Episode 10: September 24

• The first teaser trailer for The Pitt season 3 has been released by HBO Max
• It picks up on Dr. Robby's first day back after his four-month sabbatical
• A release window of January 2027 has been confirmed for the season

The Pitt season 3 first trailer has dropped, and I'm incredibly surprised that we're getting a first look this early. We can expect new episodes to arrive at some point in January 2027 — meaning we've got a five month wait until we find out what's really going on.

But HBO Max is a streaming service that likes to keep us on our toes, simultaneously giving away everything and nothing in the first season 3 teaser trailer (which you can catch up with below).

We already know that season 3 is set in early November, corresponding with the three- or four-month sabbatical Dr. Robby (Noah Wyle) is due to take at the end of season 2.

While creators said in a statement that season 3 is “just before the holidays, ushering in a whole new set of emergencies and confrontations and complications,” Wyle added at PaleyFest, "The thesis of season 1 is the doctor is the patient. Season 2, doctors don’t make very good patients. Season 3, doctors benefit from being patients.”

He also told Deadline, "Well, I think we’ll find out what that rock bottom [for Dr. Robby] looks like next year.”

Is this the impression I get from watching the first few glimpses of footage? No. But instead, I think that another medic is finally about to have their moment in the spotlight.

Opinion: The Pitt season 3 teaser trailer hints that Dr. Javadi will finally step up

With such a truly ensemble cast, there were never going to be any losers in The Pitt season 3... but if I were you I'd keep your eye on Dr. Javadi (Shabana Azeez) in new episodes.

Meek, mild-mannered and constantly second-guessing herself, as the 'baby' of the ER team Javadi has striven to prove herself both to her colleagues and to her disapproving parents, who work in general surgery and endocrinology upstairs.

But in the above clip, she's finally stepping up to take charge... and it suits her. In a split-second clip, we see her working with two other medics to try and resuscitate a patient, asking for help without feeling self-conscious in the process.

It's rare that The Pitt produces positive stories of growth for our team, but as the ER storm whips back up, I've got a good feeling about Javadi.

From what Dr. Robby tells us, though, nothing else is going to be straightforward. How the screaming casualties rolling into the day shift are going to differentiate from seasons 1 and 2 is yet to be established, but put it this way — nobody's looking well-rested.

• The title and cast of James Gunn's Superman spin-off have been revealed
• The People v. Gorilla Grodd will be a mockumentary series fronted by Jimmy Olsen
• DC fans think it's the perfect project to introduce The Flash to the DCU

James Gunn's Superman spin-off show is officially in development at DC Studios — and its title, cast, and premise suggest it could be the most unusual DC Universe (DCU) project so far.

Nine months after it emerged that a Superman TV off-shoot was in the works, the actual name of a production tentatively titled DC Crime has finally been revealed. It's called The People v. Gorilla Grodd and, as was previously reported, it'll be a mockumentary series that will center on the hyper-intelligent, telepathic ape known as Gorilla Grodd.

Until now, we'd known next to nothing else about the DCU Chapter One TV show. But, with the eight-episode, half-hour crime comedy series officially greenlit by HBO Max, and DCU overlords Gunn and Peter Safran, we have a much clearer picture of what it's about and who'll star in it.

The People v. Gorilla Grodd cast: who's involved? And where's Rachel Brosnahan's Lois Lane?

Per an HBO Max press release, The People v. Gorilla Grodd will reunite viewers with four characters from last year's Superman movie, all of whom work for Metropolis news outlet The Daily Planet.

Skyler Gisondo's Jimmy Olsen has been installed as the show's protagonist. Meanwhile, Beck Bennett as Steve Lombard, Mikaela Hoover as Cat Grant, and Wendell Pierce as Perry White, all of whom had minor roles in Superman, are also set to feature.

Curiously, Rachel Brosnahan's Lois Lane isn't part of proceedings. Does this have something to do with her role in 2027 Superman sequel Man of Tomorrow? I guess we'll find out at some point.

There are plenty of other familiar faces among the TV project's ensemble. Jimmy Tatro is the most noteworthy of those new DCU additions, with the American Vandal alumnus set to play Grodd.

Mary Holland (Ghost), Eduardo Franco (Stranger Things), Arian Moayed (Wonder Man), Dan Perrault (American Vandal), Andrew Leeds (Zoe's Extraordinary Playlist), and Tim Baltz (The Righteous Gemstones) are also involved, though their roles are being kept under wraps for now.

What is the plot of The People v. Gorilla Grodd?

Here's the official logline for The People v. Gorilla Grodd: "A superintelligent ape is convicted of murdering his father, the King of Gorilla City. In an eight-part 'true' crime docuseries, the Daily Planet’s Jimmy Olsen reopens the case, investigating whether Gorilla Grodd was wrongly convicted in one of Metropolis’ most famous murder trials."

But wait, there's more, because the above X/Twitter post gives us a more detailed look at the show's wider narrative.

"The People v. Gorilla Grodd will take a fresh, 360-degree look at the case, revealing the 'lesser-seen side' of the hyper-intelligent ape, according to the film's first-time director Jimmy Olsen," it reads. "Olsen was granted unprecedented, exclusive access to interview Grodd inside Stryker's Island Penitentiary for the documentary.

"Grodd has long claimed his innocence in the murder and brain consumption of his father, King Grodd — a crime he was convicted of in March 2021 and has remained incarcerated for ever since. The series will take an in-depth look at the investigation, featuring brand new reporting from members of the Daily Planet staff, as well as interviews with witnesses and experts on both Grodd's and the Metropolis District Attorney's side of the case, including Grodd's new counsel at the Metropolis Freedom Project."

Will The Flash appear in The People v. Gorilla Grodd?

Nobody knows, though I can see why DC comic book fans are suddenly excited about such a possibility. After all, Gorilla Grodd is one of The Flash's most notorious foes, so it's perfectly understandable that some believe that the speedy metahuman — real name Barry Allen — could make his DCU debut here.

In fact, some fans have already convinced themselves that The Flash will show up in The People v. Gorilla Grodd. Threads on r/DCULeaks and r/DC_Cinematic are sprinkled with such comments, so it'll be interesting to see if the Scarlett Speedster makes an appearance or not whenever the series is released.

Are you excited for The People v. Gorilla Grodd, or would you rather DC Studios focus on introducing Batman and Wonder Woman to the DCU? Let me know in the comments.

And, if you're after more DCU coverage to consume, check out my Sinestro in Lanterns explained and Lanterns' Manhunters explained pieces.

Lanterns episode 2 is now live on HBO Max — and it introduces viewers to the most famous Green Lantern villain of all, Thaal Sinestro.

Long-time Green Lantern fans will already know plenty about this recurring antagonist, his relationship to Hal Jordan, and why he's deemed such a threat to the Green Lantern Corps and wider galaxy. However, unless you've read the source material and/or seen the disastrous 2011 Ryan Reynolds-starring Green Lantern movie, many of you won't know much, if anything, about Sinestro.

So, who is Sinestro? What are his powers? And does his DC Comics background give us any hints about his role in Lanterns? Allow me to enlighten you on the aforementioned questions and more.

Sinestro's DC comic book history and powers explained

Let's start with what the comics tell us about Sinestro.

Created by Gil Kane and John Broome, and first appearing in August 1961 in Green Lantern #7, Thaal Sinestro hails from the planet Korugar in space sector 1417.

An anthropologist, Sinestro comes into contact with the Green Lantern known as Prohl Gosgotha when the latter crash-lands on Korugar. Prohl does so after coming under attack from a Weaponer of Qward, which hails from the anti-matter universe.

Prohl gives its ring to Sinestro, who then defeats its pursuer. However, Sinestro keeps the ring, lets Prohl die, and lies to the Guardians of the Universe — aka the immortal race that founded the intergalactic peacekeeping organization known as the Green Lantern Corps — that the ring chose him as Prohl's successor.

Corrupted by the power of the ring, Sinestro abuses his position as a Green Lantern until Hal Jordan, who becomes Sinestro's student after Jordan acquires his own ring, informs the Guardians of Sinestro's evildoing.

To punish him, the Guardians expelled Sinestro from the Green Lantern Corps, took his ring, and sent him to the anti-matter universe — more specifically, the anti-matter world Qward. There, Sinestro convinces the Weaponers, who hate the Green Lanterns, that he can use his knowledge of the space cop agency and its creators to destroy them for good, which leads the Weaponers to give Sinestro his infamous, fear-inducing yellow ring. Thus begins his never-ending quest to eradicate the Guardians and Green Lantern Corps.

As one of the Green Lanterns' most powerful nemeses, it'll come as no surprise to learn that Sinestro has myriad superhuman abilities.

Prior to being gifted his yellow ring, he already possessed genius-level intellect and was a skilled hand-to-hand combatant and expert tactician. After being armed with said ring, he gained powers similar to those of his Green Lantern foes. They include — but aren't limited to — the ability to create constructs using the wielder's mastery of fear, the ability to fly, enhanced physical abilities, limited cellular regeneration, and the power to instil fear in opponents.

Not content with being the only Yellow Lantern in existence, Sinestro went on to establish the Sinestro Corps. Also known as the Yellow Lantern Corps, this group, created by Geoff Johns and Ethan Van Sciver, was introduced in Green Lantern vol. 4 #10 in May 2006 as a sinister counterpoint to the Green Lanterns.

Who plays Sinestro in Lanterns on HBO Max?

As for who portrays Sinestro in the DC Universe (DCU) TV show on HBO Max, that'll be Ulrich Thomsen.

The Danish actor is more widely known in his homeland than in nations like the US and UK. However, Thomsen has starred in English-language movies and TV shows you might be familiar with.

On the film front, he's appeared in the 2007 big-screen adaptation of the beloved I/O Interactive game franchise Hitman, Ridley Scott's 2005 historical epic Kingdom of Heaven, and 1999 James Bond flick The World is Not Enough, among others.

Meanwhile, on the small screen, Thomsen was a series regular in Cinemax's Banshee and had recurring roles in NBC's The Blacklist and HBO Original The New Pope.

What role will Sinestro play in Lanterns' overarching story?

To try to answer that, let's first take a step back and look at why Kyle Chandler's Hal Jordan visits his imprisoned former mentor in the DCU Chapter One TV show's latest chapter.

After John Stewart learns about the Manhunters in Lanterns episode 2, he tells Jordan what he knows before retiring to his motel room for the night. Armed with Stewart's information, Jordan puts on his Green Lantern suit and flies to the maximum-security prison where Sinestro has been kept since he was taken down by Jordan. Remember, as we learned earlier in the episode, Jordan battled and defeated Sinestro after the latter attempted a coup, went rogue after that plan failed, and killed one of the Guardians.

Anyway, upon arriving at Sinestro's cell in the extraterrestrial penitentiary, Jordan asks his former mentor what he knows about the Manhunters. After some unsurprisingly strained small talk, Jordan steers the conversation back to the topic at hand. Sinestro tells Jordan that, if there's really a Manhunter living in secret on Earth, he and Stewart are facing one of the second-most dangerous beings in the entire galaxy. Before we get more of a crash course in the Manhunters, though, Sinestro asks Jordan to tell him about Jordan's own pupil, Stewart, before the screen cuts to black.

Of course, none of this gives us any indication as to Sinestro's wider role in the plot. Is he somehow secretly orchestrating events in Rushville, Nebraska from his jail cell? Does he actually know anything about Manhunters, or is he simply suggesting he does to delay Jordan's return to Earth? And how many more times will we see him in Lanterns before this season's final end credits roll?

Even though I've seen seven of this season's eight episodes — I mentioned that in my Lanterns review — I'm not allowed to spoil, nor would I want to, how Sinestro factors into the wider plot. I know that's a non-committal answer to this section header's question, but it's the best one I can give without getting into trouble with Warner Bros, HBO, and DC Studios. You'll have to keep tuning into HBO Max, aka one of the best streaming services, every week until Lanterns tells all.

Lanterns episode 2 has made its HBO Max debut — and the sci-fi crime drama appears to have revealed that a mysterious race called the Manhunters are the villains of its 2016 storyline.

So, who are they? Where did they come from? And why are they seemingly being set up as the chief antagonists of HBO's Green Lantern TV show? Let's take a look at the Manhunters' comic book history to answer — or at least try to answer — these questions.

Who are the Manhunters in DC Comics?

Created by comic book legend Jack Kirby, the Manhunters are a race of extraterrestrial robots that made their debut in 1st Issue Special #5 in August 1975.

Built by the immortal beings known as the Guardians of the Universe, the Manhunters were the Guardians' first attempt to create an intergalactic police force that would patrol the universe and combat any threats they encountered.

Unfortunately, these supposed peacekeepers evolved to the point where they became sentient, started to resent the limitations imposed by their creators, and began carrying out their own form of justice — namely, that the only way to maintain peace was to wipe out all organic life in the known universe.

After the Manhunters committed mass genocide in a catastrophic event known as the Massacre of Sector-666, and then attempted a coup against their masters, the Guardians realized they were too dangerous to keep around and set about destroying them. However, some Manhunters survived, fled to distant planets to hide among the local population, and rebuilt their numbers in the hopes of one day crushing the Guardians and their space-cop agency replacement, the Green Lantern Corps.

What do we learn about the Manhunters in Lanterns episode 2?

We're only introduced to the concept of Manhunters in episode 2 of Lanterns. Nonetheless, they're seemingly being set up as the primary villains of this season's 2016 narrative, if not the full season.

So, what do we know about them so far? According to the leader of a covert group of shapeshifting aliens who kidnap John Stewart midway through this episode, the Manhunters' origins in the DC Universe (DCU) are nearly identical to those of their creation in the source material, i.e., they're synthetic beings manufactured by the Guardians.

Furthermore, the Manhunters are so technologically advanced that they can build new bodies and take the form of a world's native alpha species. That way, they can remain undetected and, using technology far beyond the limits of those they secretly live among, carry out their brutal form of justice without interference.

It's clear that the Manhunters committed atrocities in the DCU, too. Indeed, as Stewart — and, by proxy, we — learn, entire species were wiped out by the Manhunters before they mysteriously disappeared.

Despite them vanishing without a trace, a Manhunter survived on whatever planet Stewart's captors are from and, in their leader's words, "lived among us as they quietly engineered a holocaust". Given the nature of this mass extermination, the Guardians soon dispatched a Green Lantern to arrest the Manhunter and ensure it would be executed.

However, Stewart's kidnappers believe the Manhunter wasn't killed and now secretly lives among Rushville's human population. Unfortunately, when they tried to get close to this Manhunter to enact their revenge, four of them were killed. Does that death count ring any bells? It should, because their murders are the same ones being investigated by Stewart and Jordan.

Unable to re-enter Rushville without being detected themselves, the group's leader gives Stewart an ultimatum: find the Manhunter in the next 48 hours, or the remaining shapeshifters will walk into the center of Rushville and blow themselves up. Yep, that means they belong to the same extraterrestrial race as the individual who was interrogated by Jordan in episode 1, and who detonated the explosive device in his skeleton at Rushville police station once he was compromised.

Reluctantly, Stewart agrees. Despite the group's leader warning him not to tell Jordan what they discussed, Stewart does so, which leads Jordan to question whether Abin Sur — aka the Green Lantern that Jordan replaced — was tasked with finding the Manhunter and executing it at the behest of the Guardians before his death, which presumably came at the hands of the Manhunter.

Manhunters vs. Martian Manhunter: what's the difference?

In terms of DC comic book lore, this is where things can get a little confusing.

For the uninitiated: in the comics, Martian Manhunter is a superpowered being who hails from Mars. Real name J'onn J'onzz, he's one of the few surviving members of his alien race (aka the real Manhunters) and a founding member of DC's iconic superteam in Justice League.

Because of what we'd class as this character's surname — i.e. Manhunter — you might be wondering if Martian Manhunter is a Manhunter. After all, they share a moniker, so he has to be one, right?

Well, he's not. All you need to know is that the Guardians modeled their Manhunters on the Manhunters of Ma'aleca'andra — or, to call that planet by another name, Mars. So, while these two species share a common name, they're not related in any way, nor is Martian Manhunter one of the sentient android beings that the Guardians created.

Who is the Manhunter that Hal Jordan and John Stewart must find?

That's the big question. Logic dictates that it's someone who was at the football game — and, right now, the only other named character we know to be present at that game was Sheriff Kerry Kane. On the basis that she's conducting her own investigation into the deaths of those four aliens, though, I think we can rule her out.

So, which other characters could be the Manhunter in disguise? Will Macon is the obvious choice — he's certainly mysterious and, based on his hostile approach to extraterrestrials, would fit the mould of someone who doesn't want to be found by, say, a group of aliens seeking revenge for their race's near-extinction.

That said, it seems that he answers to someone else — i.e., his so-called 'benefactor' — further up the food chain. As such, I'm not convinced that the Macon patriarch is the Manhunter.

There are other possible candidates in the DCU Chapter One TV show. Will's son Billy is one — after all, he's cosied up to Jordan as his lawyer, which is a sure-fire way of disarming a potential opponent and throwing them off the scent about who killed the four aliens at the Nebraskan football game.

I don't think we can overlook Zoe, aka Will's wife, either. And, with Stewart being told by his kidnappers that Manhunters are deceptive beings, it's not a stretch to assume that she's trying to manipulate Stewart in a bid to drive a bigger wedge between him and Jordan, which would impact their own investigation.

Of course, the Manhunter could be someone we haven't even met yet, so we'll have to wait for future episodes to air on HBO Max, aka one of the best streaming services, to see if anyone else could be the Manhunter. Currently, though, I'm going to evoke Jordan and say my gut's telling me it's Will, Billy, or Zoe.

While we wait for more clues, get the full lowdown on Sinestro following his introduction at the end of Lanterns episode 2. Then, vote in the poll below and/or leave a comment to let me know who you think the Manhunter is.

Are you ready for Lanterns' next episode? You better be, because it'll arrive on a streaming platform near you very soon.

With Lanterns episode 1 ending in shocking fashion with the death of a major character, I suspect you're dying (no pun intended) to know who's responsible for that individual's demise.

So, will the DC Universe (DCU) TV show's next chapter, entitled 'Trust Fall', reveal who it is? You'll have to tune in to find out. Read on to learn when Lanterns' second entry will drop where you live.

When does episode 2 of Lanterns come out?

The second episode of HBO's Green Lantern TV show will premiere on Sunday, August 23 at 6pm PT / 9pm ET in the US and Canada.

As for viewers in other nations, here's when the DCU Chapter One TV series' next installment will air in your neck of the woods:

• US — Sunday, August 23 at 6pm PT / 9pm ET
• Canada — Sunday, August 23 at 6pm PT / 9pm ET
• UK — Monday, August 24 at 2am BST
• India — Monday, August 24 at 6:30am IST
• Singapore — Monday, August 24 at 9am SGT
• Australia — Monday, August 24 at 11am AEST
• New Zealand — Monday, August 24 at 1pm NZST

Where can I watch Lanterns episode 2?

Like its forebear, Lanterns' next episode will be released on HBO Max (one of the best streaming services around) in countries where the Warner Bros. Discovery-owned platform has launched.

Don't fret if HBO Max hasn't come to your world region yet, though, because you can watch Lanterns on another TV network, channel, or streamer. Check out the list below to see which one you'll need to tune in to:

• US — HBO and HBO Max
• Canada — Crave
• UK — HBO Max, Sky Atlantic, and Now TV
• India — JioHotstar
• Singapore — HBO Max
• Australia — HBO Max
• New Zealand — HBO Max

How many episodes of Lanterns are there?

There will be eight episodes of Lanterns in total this season. That means, after this week's episode comes out, we'll be a quarter of the way through the show's debut season.

But I'm getting off-track. With new chapters launching every Sunday in the Americas and every Monday on other continents, these are the dates that new episodes will be released on:

• Lanterns episode 1 — out now
• Lanterns episode 2 — August 23/24
• Lanterns episode 3 — August 30/31
• Lanterns episode 4 — September 6/7
• Lanterns episode 5 — September 13/14
• Lanterns episode 6 — September 20/21
• Lanterns episode 7 — September 27/28
• Lanterns episode 8 — October 4/5

Your streaming savior has arrived — and, by that, I mean the latest edition of our weekly 'what to watch at home' round-up is here.

With little in the way of new movies and TV shows hitting the world's best streaming services in recent days, this version of our streaming recommendations article is unusually stacked in the documentary department. Regardless, whether you're after some factual or fictional content to catch from the comfort of your couch, there's something below that'll definitely pique your interest. — Tom Power, senior entertainment reporter

Outer Banks season 5 (Netflix)

We've known for a while that Outer Banks seasons 5 was going to be the end of Netflix's hit teen action drama for a lifetime (or that's what it feels like), and now the end is here.

The Pogues are reuniting one last time while still grieving in the aftermath of everything that went down in Morocco. Now that J.J. is dead, they're actively seeking revenge against Chandler Groff while still hunting the legendary Blue Crown.

Come for the explosive drama, stay for the friendships. The Pogues might be disappearing from Netflix for good, but their impact will last forever. — Jasmine Valentine, entertainment reporter

• Watch Outer Banks season 5 on Netflix

Mother Mary (HBO Max)

Anne Hathaway recently said that one of her five movie releases this year was merely "well respected". That was about A24's Mother Mary... and I actually think it's her best film of 2026 so far.

In it, Hathaway stars as the titular iconic pop star who prepares for a comeback after an onstage accident. Overwhelmed during preparations and needing an outfit that captures her true self, she flees to the English countryside to reunite with her estranged former collaborator and ex-lover, fashion designer Sam Anselm (Michaela Coel).

Not only is it about time that Coel gets the international recognition that she deserves, but Mother Mary is the edgiest and most experimental that Hathaway has been in years. It's giving Lady Gaga meets David Lynch in the best way, and the creative risk pays off. Catch it on HBO Max now. — JV

• Watch Mother Mary on HBO Max

Novak Djokovic: The Wolf of Winter (Prime Video)

I'll readily admit I'm not the biggest Novak Djokovic fan. There's no denying his talent and longevity in the world of tennis, but I always preferred watching Roger Federer and Rafael Nadal play than their at-times prickly and controversial Serbian counterpart during the golden era of their respective rivalries.

That said, this new Amazon docufilm, which charts Djokovic's rise to the very top of the game — and the obstacles that lay in his path on the way there — might alter my opinion of him. Novak Djokovic: The Wolf of Winter is out now on Prime Video, so fans of the record-breaking, 24-time Grand Slam champion and tennis aficionados in general will want to add this to their watchlist. — TP

• Watch Novak Djokovic: The Wolf of Winter on Prime Video

Disney Worldbuilders (Disney+)

If you're a fan of Disney Parks, you won't want to miss Leslie Iwerks’ new Disney+ documentary. Following on from Disneyland Handcrafted, this latest docufilm takes a look at some of the parks biggest movie-themed attractions and how they came to be.

Through exclusive interviews with industry veterans like James Cameron, Jon Favreau, Kevin Feige, Jennifer Lee, and Pete Docter, we learn more about the creative processes behind their biggest movies, and their lasting legacy within the Disney Parks.

In my Disney Worldbuilders review, I noted that it was inspiring to watch, but 58 minutes was too short to paint a full portrait. Though lacking in places, it remains a fun weekend watch. — Lucy Buglass, senior entertainment writer

• Watch Disney Worldbuilders on Disney+

Passenger (Paramount+)

Passenger is one of the new horror movies to arrive on Paramount+ this month, but many fans have conceded that the road trip horror movie ends up at an underwhelming destination.

Indeed, I felt the same in my Passenger review. If you're in need of a good fright, it does the job, but it suffers from a lack of suspense or originality throughout.

So, what's it about? It follows young couple Maddie and Tyler as a demon becomes an unexpected hitchhiker and soon begins to terrorize them. There's plenty of jump scares ahead, so be warned! — LB

• Watch Passenger on Paramount+

Conan O'Brien Must Go season 3 (HBO Max)

Hands up who else forgets that this late night talk show host does more than... well, late night talk show hosting? Conan O'Brien Must Go season 3 sees the the eponymous comedian head to The Netherlands, India, The Philippines, and Morocco to explore with "zero shame."

As one YouTube comment points out, it does feel as though O'Brien has managed to get HBO to pay for an elaborate vacation for little reason. But, as another fan adds, the world can only be a better place with more O'Brien in it.

Personally, I'm all for it. Is there anything better than travelling the world from the comfort of your own sofa? I'm yet to find it, if so. — JV

• Watch Conan O'Brien Must Go season 3 on HBO Max

Freefall: A Reckoning for Boeing (Netflix)

Freefall: A Reckoning for Boeing centers on former Boeing employee-turned-whistleblower John Barnett, who took his own life amid an ongoing case against Boeing. Prior to his death in 2024, Barnett had claims against the aviation company that highlighted safety violations and alleged pressure to overlook defective parts on aircrafts.

Barnett had previously appeared in the documentary Downfall: The Case Against Boeing in 2022. Now, years later, filmmaker Rory Kennedy is revisiting the story and how Barnett inspired so many others to become whistleblowers, too. It's by no means an easy watch, but it feels like an essential one. — LB

• Watch Freefall: A Reckoning for Boeing on Netflix

I've said it before and I'll say it again: new HBO Max spinoff Stuart Fails to Save the Universe is even better than original series The Big Bang Theory.

Sure, it's come under fire for its potentially AI-ridden title sequence and we've still yet to see Sheldon (Jim Parsons) and Leonard (Johnny Galecki) make a return, but I'm having so much fun watching that I've barely given these minor issues a second thought.

We've been hopping from universe to universe at lightning speed, with each variant of Stuart (Kevin Sussman), Denise (Lauren Lapkus), Kripke (John Ross Bowie) and Bert (Brian Posehn) being richer and more hilarious than the last. The TBBT cameos we have had have been ridiculously left-field, and frankly, I love the fact that I cannot guess what on Earth will happen in the next episode.

Given how the concept of the show itself can be taken literally anywhere in space and time, it makes logical sense for Stuart Fails to Save the Universe to run for multiple seasons. But according to its creators, there's "no big picture" for any kind of future... even though season 2 has already been picked up.

'This is chasing what seems to be fun and exciting to do'

"It would be great if I had the big picture," Chuck Lorre tells me. "Wouldn't that be swell? I don't. There's no big picture. This is just chasing what seems to be fun to do... the big picture would require a bigger person."

Zak Penn adds, "We purposefully wrote ourselves into corners. We like doing that and then saying 'How are we going to get out of this?' That was definitely part of the design of how the team writes and how they wanted to approach it. It makes it more fun not really knowing where we were going to be and how we were going to get there.

"Eventually, we figured some stuff out and came up with an ending. But [the show] was never designed to be 'Oh, we know where all of this is going.'"

Given how easy it would be to create Stuart Fails to Save the Universe season 2 — both from a narrative and production point of view — this news is somewhat alarming. But don't panic... I've decided to take matters into my own hands.

For now, I'm continuing on with the perhaps-delusional belief that I could find myself in the season 2 writers room within a matter of months. So, I've pitched the team two ideas for future storylines.

The first is addressing the really big picture: use Stuart Fails to Save the Universe to address the existing problem of George Cooper being dead, and bring him back to life through an alternate universe. That way, Young Sheldon fans get the ending they really wanted.

"We'll definitely keep your ideas in mind," Penn says. "There are an infinite number of universes within this universe, so the universe that you're looking for is going to exist by definition. Whether it makes it to TV is another question."

So far, so good. But I hammer this home with another idea: explore the episode 2 universe that reveals film and TV's Christine Baranski is an AI overlord.

Bill Prady responds, "We'll have to see how the rebellion goes and what happens afterwards. What do they do to her afterwards?"

"She'd be tried," Lorre agrees. "Well there we go — there's something we can do if we get a second season."

Bingo. Over to you, HBO.

We're halfway through The Big Bang Theory spinoff Stuart Fails to Save the Universe, and I still maintain the opinion that it's better than the original CBS sitcom.

But that hasn't stopped the two from being heavily intertwined. Over the last four episodes, we've seen cameo appearances from Raj (Kunal Nayyar), Penny (Kaley Cuoco), Bernadette (Melissa Rauch) and Amy (Mayim Bialik). Could this week add a fifth member to the growing party?

Judging by the trailer, things are set to feel a little more primitive instead. So, when does Stuart Fails to Save the Universe episode 4 arrive on HBO Max?

What time can I watch Stuart Fails to Save the Universe episode 5 on HBO Max?

For US viewers, Stuart Fails to Save the Universe episode 5 will drop on Thursday, August 20 at 6pm PT/ 9pm ET.

Internationally, you're looking out for these timings:

• US – Thursday, August 20 at 6pm PT / 9pm ET
• Canada – Thursday, August 20 at 6pm PT / 9pm ET
• UK – Friday, August 21 at 2am BST
• India – Friday, August 21 at 6:30am IST
• Singapore – Friday, August 21 at 9am SGT
• Australia – Friday, August 21 at 11am AEDT
• New Zealand – Friday, August 21 at 12pm NZDT

When do new episodes of Stuart Fails to Save the Universe come out?

New episodes of Stuart Fails to Save the Universe will make landfall every Thursday in the US and on Fridays everywhere else. Here are the all-important dates you need to know about:

• Episode 1: out now
• Episode 2: out now
• Episode 3: out now
• Episode 4: out now
• Episode 5: August 20
• Episode 6: August 27
• Episode 7: September 3
• Episode 8: September 10
• Episode 9: September 17
• Episode 10: September 24

The creators of Lanterns always knew that its premiere's shock ending would divide fans. In fact, they didn't expect DC Studios' overlords to approve the idea in the first place.

With the DC Universe (DCU) show finally debuting on August 16/17, Green Lantern fans, comic book diehards, and casual viewers alike have tuned in to watch the TV series' first episode. Suffice to say, many have reacted with shock, anger, or both following the ending of the DCU Chapter One show's inaugural chapter, too.

Be advised, full spoilers immediately follow for Lanterns episode 1, titled 'Pilot'. If you haven't seen it yet, go and do so. Then, check out my Lanterns episode 1 ending explained article for additional context on its final minutes. Once you're done, you're safe to continue reading this piece.

Speaking as part of behind-the-scenes look at Lanterns episode 1's development, co-creator Damon Lindelof said of its twist ending: "The death of Hal Jordan is probably the most controversial idea that we had."

You can say that again, Mister Lindelof — but, that's not the only thing that he and his fellow co-creators Chris Mundy and Tom King wanted to address about Jordan's demise.

Expanding on the decision to kill off one of the show's two leads, Mundy said on episode 1 of Lanterns: The Official Podcast: "I didn't think they [DCU overseers James Gunn and Peter Safran] would let us do it. I think it was your idea [pointing at Lindelof], and I remember thinking 'Oh, it would be really cool and... be a good way to invest in what that mystery is'.

"We've got to be digging at something that, eventually, is meaningful to us," Mundy continued. "So, we floated it to them and they're like, 'Great'. And then we were like, 'Oh, s**t, now we've got to write it in a way that is meaningful, respectful of the canon, and respectful of Hal as a character."

"It started from the spirit of 'what can we do that nobody expects?,'" Lindelof said. "But then, when you're talking about story that way, and take a risk just because it's risky, especially when there's an incredible legacy and canon you're inheriting, and you're basically a temporary caretaker... of this character for a period of time, you have to acknowledge and pay tribute to those people who have minded the character before you.

"Ultimately, though, we understood that the pilot was presenting a conflict of 'one ring, two guys'," Lindelof continued. "If I was watching it, I'd be sitting here thinking: 'They're going to find a way to compromise and make two rings, and they're going to be able to share at the end'. That felt very hokey and frustrating, and not HBO, and not even Green Lantern.

"So, what if we signal to the audience that Hal was not going to make it to the end of this season?" he added. "Let's just show that card and do it in the pilot. We want people who are leaving the first episode to know exactly what it is they're getting into, versus getting to the finale and then killing Hal, which felt cheap."

So, has Hal really taken his last breath in the DCU? Obviously, the trio wouldn't be drawn on that, but Mundy added: "The good thing about these shows is there are a lot of sci-fi rules that you can break in it, so nothing is ever as clear as you think it is". We'll find out whether Hal's death is a fake out or not, then, in the weeks ahead.

Want a head-start on what to expect from the HBO Max show's remaining episodes? Read my Lanterns review, which covers seven of its eight chapters without revealing any massive spoilers for the DC Comics-inspired project.

Lanterns has finally premiered on HBO Max — and, in a move reminiscent of Invincible's first-ever episode on Prime Video, the new DC Universe (DCU) TV show wastes no time in delivering an almighty shock in its first chapter.

Indeed, the sci-fi show's premiere, titled 'Pilot', ends with a moment that'll completely stun viewers and likely upset DC comic book fanatics.

I'm about to dig into the biggest talking point from Lanterns' debut episode, so consider this your one and only warning: full spoilers immediately follow after the poll below. Turn back now if you haven't seen 'Pilot' yet, or else.

Is Kyle Chandler's Hal Jordan really dead in Lanterns?

It certainly seems that way. Of course, this could be a massive fake out — after all, there are all manner of shapeshifting alien species that can impersonate humans in DC Comics, so it's possible that this is the case here. Nonetheless, I believe that Chandler's Jordan has taken his last breath in the DCU.

Okay, but how did we get here? For starters, this season's premiere wasn't shy about teasing Jordan's demise. Indeed, minutes before his death, which takes place during the show's 2026 storyline, is shown, Jordan, Aaron Pierre's John Stewart, and Kelly Macdonald's Sheriff Kerry Kane survive an attack from a suicidal bomber at Rushville's police station.

This incident, which happens as part of Lanterns' 2016 storyline, is caused by an alien masquerading as a human truck driver called Waylon Sanders. As the unidentified extraterrestrial reveals, their skeleton is retrofitted with a biometric neutron device that they can activate with a single thought.

Prior to detonating the explosive gadget, Sanders goads Jordan over the latter's fearless nature, which Sanders interprets as Jordan wanting someone or something to kill him. In that respect, then, the DCU Chapter One series telegraphs his death before it happens.

Rather than bump off Jordan in 2016, though, Lanterns withholds his passing until a decade later. Indeed, Jordan uses his power ring to form a protective bubble around Sanders just before the assailant detonates his skeletal device, thereby restricting the blast radius and saving the lives of everyone nearby.

But, that's not the end of the story. Five minutes before 'Pilot' ends, we skip ahead to 2026, which reteams us with Stewart as he heads to the same college football field that he and Jordan first met Sheriff Kane, and where their 2016 investigation into the deaths of four football fans began.

There, Stewart reunites with Kane and, after a bit of small talk about Kane's now-teenage son Noah, they head to a section of the bleacher seating where Jordan's snow-covered corpse is eventually revealed to be sitting.

Who killed Hal Jordan in Lanterns episode 1? Assessing the most likely candidates

Alright, so who murdered Earth's first-ever Green Lantern? We don't know, but we can speculate on who pulled the trigger.

The first two — and arguably most likely candidates — are Sheriff Kane and the stadium's groundskeeper. Kane tells Stewart that the latter is the only other individual who currently knows that Jordan is dead. However, it's incredibly unlikely that the groundskeeper will be a prominent character moving forward, so we can rule them out.

We can do likewise with Kane. Sure, she's got a firearm to hand at all times, but I just don't see her wanting to draw heat over Jordan's death, and the potential ire of Stewart, the Green Lantern Corps, and/or the Guardians of the Universe.

So, who else could it be? Of the other characters we've met, I wouldn't be shocked if Garret Dillahunt's Will Macon is behind it, regardless of whether he actually committed the deed or not. Right now, though, he's formed something of an uneasy alliance with Jordan and Stewart, so a massive, relationship-breaking event would need to happen for Macon to be involved in Jordan's demise.

There are bound to be other would-be murderers who could've taken Jordan's life who we've yet to encounter, so we might be adding more names to our shortlist in the weeks ahead.

That said — and hear me out on this before you pass judgement — what if Jordan killed himself? He's a former special forces pilot, so he knows how to handle a gun. For all we know, Waylon was telling the truth about Jordan wanting is life to be over, too — especially if, as an alien, the former has some form of perceptive superpower that allows his species to read someone else.

Who do you think killed Hal Jordan? Let me know in the comment section below. And, for more on the HBO Max show, read my Lanterns review.

Light spoilers follow for Lanterns episodes 1 to 7.

DC Studios probably didn't expect to have so much riding on Lanterns prior to its debut. But with Supergirl flopping at the box office and fans openly worrying about how much green they'd see in its Green Lantern TV show, DC and HBO executives have likely been sweating ahead of launch.

James Gunn, Peter Safran, Casey Bloys, and company can breathe a collective sigh of relief. While it stops short of being a TV masterpiece, Lanterns is the strongest DC Universe (DCU) entry yet — and, if future DC Studios movies and shows are this good, the cinematic franchise's brightest days may still lie ahead.

In brightest day, in blackest night...

Spanning storylines in 2016 and 2026, Lanterns introduces us to Aaron Pierre's John Stewart and Kyle Chandler's Hal Jordan. As of 2016, Jordan has spent 30 years keeping vigil as Earth's first Green Lantern.

But his tenure is nearing its end. That's because Stewart is selected to be Jordan's replacement by the Guardians of the Universe, a group of omnipresent superpowered extraterrestrials that founded the intergalactic space cop agency known as the Green Lanterns Corps. The group asks a reluctant Jordan to take the new recruit under his wing.

Two months into Stewart's training, a mysterious high school murder draws the pair to Rushville, Nebraska. What starts out as a local investigation, though, soon unspools into a far-reaching, mass cosmic conspiracy that impacts both plotlines.

Naturally, the 2016 narrative directly influences events in 2026, with the latter particularly focusing on the consequences and repercussions of the duo's actions 10 years prior.

I'm not allowed to reveal how these dual timelines interact, or how the wider seasonal structure and time jump operate. What I can say, though, is that I was surprised by how the episodic format frames its dual storylines.

In fact, the 2026 storyline, which takes place in the DCU's present, occasionally feels like Lanterns season 1.5 — and that's my biggest critique. I haven't seen this season's eighth and final episode yet, so I still hold out hope that the finale will tie everything together seamlessly. Right now, though, the present-day plot feels like an overly drawn-out epilogue to the 2016 events and a foundational layer to the DC comic book show's already in-development second season.

None of this means Lanterns is predictable. Sure, given its source material, its superhero flair and 'new weird' sci-fi sensibilities are expected. At its core, though, it's a grounded, rural crime drama — albeit with cosmic stakes — that unapologetically wears its True Detective influences on its sleeve.

Narrative curveballs, then, are par for the course, even if they're hurled with varying degrees of success. Indeed, while I decoded one of the 2016 storyline's biggest mysteries early on, I was completely blindsided by a game-changing plot twist that redefines its dual timeline structure. No spoilers, but it's a bold storytelling pivot guaranteed to upset Green Lantern fanatics and ignite debate among DC purists.

Given the deliberately slow-burn nature of its unfolding story threads, the DCU Chapter One show's action largely takes a backseat to character work and its police procedural tendencies. Small-scale skirmishes and chase sequences, rather than constant spectacle, are largely the name of the game.

When Lanterns decides to go full throttle, though, it does so with aplomb. Again, I'm not at liberty to talk extensively about specific episodic events, but one entry completely usurps the space cop murder-mystery vibes for emotionally heavy, big-budget set-pieces — and the show is all the better for it.

Passing of the torch

Ultimately, Lanterns wouldn't be as blindingly brilliant without its talented co-leads — and Pierre and Chandler are certainly a match made in heaven.

Barely five minutes into episode 1, their utterly absorbing buddy cop relationship bears fruit, too.

Balancing humor and gravity in equal measure, Stewart and Jordan are unmistakeably two sides of the same courageous coin from their very first interaction. It's an opening exchange that instantly validates their perfect casting, and highlights the pair's natural, magnetic rapport that only deepens as the series progresses.

Their bond is only strengthened by their individual and collective complexities. Between Hal's unconventional mentorship, backstories that unexpectedly tie their pasts together, and a deep-seated yet unspoken mutual respect, the veiled hostility that punctuates their dynamic has an electrifying push-and-pull that you can't take your eyes off.

Green Lantern traditionalists might balk at certain character tweaks, such as the obsessive drive imbued in the DCU's Stewart.

For the most part, though, both actors capture the true essence of their characters — Pierre embodying the stoic, disciplined, and measured Stewart to a tee, while Chandler delivers a flawless portrayal of Jordan's brash, reckless, intentionally aggravating, and stubborn persona.

With these polar opposites both believing themselves uniquely worthy of wielding Earth's sole Green Lantern ring, their powder-keg rivalry heightens with every episode, which eventually erupts into a conflict that leaves their already fragile relationship irrevocably scarred. Suffice it to say, Lanterns' buddy cop bond is the best I've seen in a long, long time.

Are you afraid?

Beyond its leads, Lanterns boasts an exceptionally strong ensemble. Kelly Macdonald is terrific as the HBO Max show's primary supporting character, Kerry Kane, Rushville's no-nonsense sheriff with a mysterious history of her own, who dovetails with Stewart and Chandler as part of a captivating triumvirate.

Macdonald is far from the only standout. Garret Dillahunt is the subtle, creeping menace and intriguing ranch owner, Will Macon, whose wider antagonistic role isn't exactly subtle with regard to Lanterns' thematic exploration of white privilege, racial discrimination, and injustice.

Elsewhere, Poorna Jagannathan imbues the enigmatic Zoe with charm and complexity, and Laura Linney commands the screen as Lianna, aka one of the Guardians of the Universe.

Furthermore, J. Alphonse Nicholson and Jasmine Cephas Jonas shine as Stewart's parents — primarily during a flashback-heavy, Stewart family-focused episode, but also now and then during the 2026 plot. Special credit to Nathan Fillion's guest-starring role as the wonderfully obnoxious Guy Gardner, too, whose fiery interactions with Stewart are, like the latter's fraught dynamic with Jordan, worth the entry fee.

If there's a downside, it's that a few talents are disappointingly underused — namely, Jason Ritter's Billy Macon and, given his weight in Green Lantern mythology, Ulrich Thomsen's Sinestro. With the latter, though, the trajectory heading into this season's finale suggests the show might still set things right.

Beyond the characters, Lanterns leans heavily into its source material's lore, thereby honoring DC's rich history rather than just skimming the best bits off the surface.

Refreshingly, its deep-cut fan-service doesn't come at the expense of accessibility. Indeed, with Stewart serving as the audience's entry point to the Green Lantern Corps and wider mythos surrounding this fictional institution, newcomers can easily grasp the cosmic mechanics without feeling lost.

Meanwhile, long-time fans have a treasure trove of Green Lantern Easter eggs and wider comic book references — a couple made it into Lanterns' initial teaser and Lanterns' first official trailer — to pore over. But regardless of your familiarity with this particular corner of the DC comic book universe, seeing Stewart and Jordan flex their creative muscles with the latter's power ring is pure joy, especially when they use it for the most basic tasks.

My verdict

Recency bias aside, Lanterns is unequivocally the finest DC Studios production so far. Driven by an absorbing, twist-filled narrative, anchored by heavyweight performances, and extremely faithful to its literary roots, this is prestige television nearly firing on all cylinders.

And I say "nearly" because a few minor missteps, which I've already covered, mean it falls just shy of absolute perfection. Even so, Lanterns is a shining example of a comic book adaptation done right — and a much-needed beacon of hope for the DCU at the end of what's been its most challenging period to date.

Lanterns launches with a one-episode premiere on August 16/17, with new episodes airing weekly. Ahead of launch, find out everything we know so far about Lanterns.

Does anybody think August is going way too fast? It feels like I've blinked and somehow it's already the middle of the month.

Well, at least it's the weekend again, which means it's time to enjoy one or more of the new movies and shows that have debuted on the world's best streaming services over the last few days — or, in the case of one show, will debut very shortly.

As always, we couldn't include every new release, but I'm confident you'll find something to enjoy from the seven we've highlighted below. — Tom Power, senior entertainment reporter

Lanterns (HBO Max)

With Supergirl giving DC Studios its first major flop in late June, all eyes are on Lanterns — i.e., the DC Universe's (DCU) next TV show — to see if that was a mere blip or the beginning of something more foreboding.

So, which is it? You'll have to read my Lanterns review for a definitive answer. I'll give you a clue, though: co-leads Kyle Chandler and Aaron Pierre are absolutely fantastic in this DCU Chapter One project, which sees their characters — aka iconic Green Lantern pair Hal Jordan and John Stewart — investigate a small-town murder in rural America.

Saying much more will spoil your viewing experience, so I advise you to a) find out what we know so far about Lanterns, and b) check out this sci-fi crime drama on HBO Max as soon as you can. Depending on where you live, Lanterns episode 1 debuts on August 16/17, with new episodes airing weekly until October 4. — TP

• Watch Lanterns on HBO Max

Reacher season 4 (Prime Video)

He's big! He punches! You'll love him regardless! Alan Ritchson's version of Jack Reacher is back on Prime Video — and in season 4, things are getting political.

Adapting the Lee Child novel Gone Tomorrow, the Amazon TV original's latest chapter sees Reacher become embroiled in a CIA conspiracy after suspecting a woman on a New York City subway train is actually a suicide bomber. It's drama that makes you think, for the first time ever in this franchise.

For easy comfort viewing, season 4 is ticking every box you'd expect after its last three seasons, and that makes for some satisfying weekly viewing. That said, it isn't as strong as previous entries, and you'll have to read my review of Reacher season 4 to find out why. — Jasmine Valentine, entertainment reporter

• Watch Reacher season 4 on Prime Video

Don't Say Good Luck (Netflix)

Any theater kid will know that saying "good luck" before a performance is forbidden. You don't want to tempt fate, after all. But, in Netflix's new movie, events going on in a young actress' life are far more dramatic than anything under the spotlight.

In Don't Say Good Luck, Sunny Sandler plays Sophie, who is preparing for her high school musical of Waitress. However, she ends up with more emotional turmoil than expected when she learns that her mother's (Melanie Lynskey) cancer has returned.

The movie explores how a teenager processes family illness while trying to channel her feelings through art, so you might need tissues for this one. — Lucy Buglass, senior entertainment writer

• Watch Don't Say Good Luck on Netflix

Michael (Starz)

Your Spotify Wrapped is about to change thanks to all of the Michael Jackson songs you're bound to replay after watching his highly acclaimed biopic, Michael, which is now available on Starz.

Starring his real-life nephew Jaafar Jackson in the titular role, we follow the singer's career from his days in The Jackson 5 up until the 1987 release of the album Bad. In between, there's a lot of focus on how Thriller — which is still the best-selling album of all time — was created, which is satisfying regardless of whether you're a fan.

Perhaps the most interesting part of this is that Michael 2 is supposedly in the works, given we know what happened in the singer's life in the 1990s onwards. For now, the vibes are very much 'hee hee!'. — JV

• Watch Michael on Starz

The X-Files: I Want to Believe — Vrach Frankenshteyn (Hulu/Disney+)

20 years after The X-Files: I Want to Believe was released, we're finally getting Chris Carter's director's cut.

If you haven't seen the original film, it follows Fox Mulder (David Duchovny) and Doctor Dana Scully (Gillian Anderson) as they're pulled back into a case years after leaving the FBI when a federal agent vanishes without a trace. As ever, the truth is out there.

Carter's cut intensifies the horror elements that were removed from the theatrically released edition in order to give it a PG-13 rating. So if, like me, you loved the darker side of The X-Files series, this is well worth watching on Hulu or Disney+ this weekend. — LB

• Watch The X-Files: I Want to Believe — Vrach Frankenshteyn on Hulu (US) and Disney+ (internationally)

Camp Rock 3 (Disney+)

Fellow Millennials, did you ever think that you'd see the day that Camp Rock was resurrected? Perhaps you're tuning in because you've seen that song doing the rounds on social media, or because you've heard about a certain Disney legend cameo... but you're in for a wild ride regardless.

Thankfully, the Jonas Brothers are back as Connect 3. They return to Camp Rock after losing their opening act for a major reunion tour, and host a high-stakes musical competition and discover fresh new talent.

In Camp Rock 3, expect more traveling choreography as performers move through the woods, more original music, and youthful romantic drama in abundance. It's truly as if I'm a teenager again. — JV

• Watch Camp Rock 3 on Disney+

Conversations With a Killer: The Charles Manson Tapes (Netflix)

Netflix's final installment of the Conversations With a Killer series centers around Charles Manson, one of the world's most notorious cult leaders.

Manson has provided inspiration for countless stories over the years, be it Quentin Tarantino's Once Upon a Time in Hollywood or Ryan Murphy's American Horror Story: Cult. Indeed, Conversations With a Killer's director Joe Berlinger says Manson “ushered in the modern era of America’s fascination with true crime", making him the ideal subject to focus on as this series comes to a close.

Expect archival audio footage and tapes, and featuring exclusive interviews with key figures involved, journalists, and investigators in this shocking three-part finale. — LB

• Watch Conversations With a Killer: The Charles Manson Tapes on Netflix

Lanterns will aim to bring back brighter days for DC Studios after the DC Universe's (DCU) darkest period. Indeed, with Supergirl being the first major flop of the comic giant's rebooted cinematic universe, all eyes are on its forthcoming Green Lantern TV show to see if that was a minor blip or not.

Thinking of tuning in to see the new comic book-inspired sci-fi crime drama? You'll want to know when and where its first episode, titled 'Pilot', will arrive. Read on to learn more.

When can I watch Lanterns episode 1? And what is its runtime?

Lanterns will premiere in the US and Canada on Sunday, August 16 at 6pm PT / 9pm ET.

The DCU Chapter One TV series' first episode, which clocks in at 57 minutes including its end credits, will also be available to watch in other nations, but it won't air until Monday, August 17. Here are the launch times you need to know about if you live in the following countries:

• US — Sunday, August 16 at 6pm PT / 9pm ET
• Canada — Sunday, August 16 at 6pm PT / 9pm ET
• UK — Monday, August 17 at 2am BST
• India — Monday, August 17 at 6:30am IST
• Singapore — Monday, August 17 at 9am SGT
• Australia — Monday, August 17 at 11am AEST
• New Zealand — Monday, August 17 at 1pm NZST

Where can I watch Lanterns episode 1?

HBO Max is the primary streaming home for all DC Studios projects, so you'll need to sign up to one of the best streaming services if you don't have an account to watch Lanterns.

That said, HBO Max hasn't launched in every territory yet, so some of you will find it on another streaming platform or TV network. Luckily for you, I've compiled a list of the places it'll be available to watch below, so scroll on to see where it'll drop in your neighborhood:

• US — HBO and HBO Max
• Canada — Crave
• UK — HBO Max, Sky Atlantic, and Now TV
• India — JioHotstar
• Singapore — HBO Max
• Australia — HBO Max
• New Zealand — HBO Max

Lanterns full release schedule

Like most other HBO TV Originals, new episodes of DC Studios' Green Lantern TV show will be released weekly once its first chapter has dropped. That means viewers in North and South America will need to check back in every Sunday evening for new entries, while the rest of the world can watch them every Monday.

Here's a rundown of the all-important launch dates to be aware of:

• Lanterns episode 1 — August 16/17
• Lanterns episode 2 — August 23/24
• Lanterns episode 3 — August 30/31
• Lanterns episode 4 — September 6/7
• Lanterns episode 5 — September 13/14
• Lanterns episode 6 — September 20/21
• Lanterns episode 7 — September 27/28
• Lanterns episode 8 — October 4/5

What is Lanterns about? And who's involved?

Here's the series' official logline: "Lanterns follows new recruit John Stewart (Aaron Pierre) and Lantern legend Hal Jordan (Kyle Chandler), two intergalactic cops drawn into a dark, earth-based mystery with cosmic ties as they investigate a murder in the American heartland."

As the above synopsis notes, Pierre and Chandler will play Lanterns' co-leads in Stewart and Jordan. The Rebel Ridge and Friday Night Lights alums are joined on the official cast roster by Kelly Macdonald, Garret Dillahunt, Poorna Jagannathan, Laura Linney, Jason Ritter, Ulrich Thomsen, Nathan Fillion, J. Alphonse Nicholson, and Jasmine Cephas Jones.

TV veterans Damon Lindelof (Lost, Watchmen) and Chris Mundy (Ozark), plus comic book writer Tom King (Supergirl: Woman of Tomorrow) are its creators and some of its executive producers. Mundy also holds the position as its lead showrunner.

For more ahead of the show's debut, find out everything else we know so far about Lanterns. Then, check out my near-full season review of Lanterns.

Mild spoilers for Stuart Fails to Save the Universe episode 4 ahead.

Four episodes into Stuart Fails to Save the Universe on HBO Max and we've seen four surprise Big Bang Theory characters return: Raj (Kunal Nayyar), Penny (Kaley Cuoco), Bernadette (Melissa Rauch) and Amy (Mayim Bialik).

With one new face per episode, you might be wondering whether the remaining six episodes in the series will continue the trend.

Most notably, Sheldon (Jim Parsons) and Leonard (Jonny Galecki) have yet to make an appearance — and considering they built the machine that Stuart (Kevin Sussman) broke that got him into this mess, it feels fitting that they should reappear. Howard (Simon Helberg) has also yet to reappear.

However, a return isn't necessarily guaranteed, especially if the creators want Stuart Fails to Save the Universe to be picked up for a second season (which they definitely do). Why give us what we want now if they can drag it out?

But after speaking to Chuck Lorre, Bill Prady and Zak Penn, it turns out the reason for the season 1 cameos is actually boringly straightforward: it all came down to who was available to film.

'It was what was necessary for the storytelling'

"It was availability and what was necessary for the storytelling" Lorre responds when I ask him about this season's cameos. "It was wonderful to have Melissa play a demonic character, for example. That just made sense."

Penn adds "Who we had something good to write for," with Prady agreeing "I also loved finding out that Amy is married to Golden Age Flash. That made me very happy."

Perhaps we should be focusing on these Easter egg details, rather than what cameos may or may not appear. Why was Golden Age Flash such a good choice? Because he's Sheldon's favorite DC superhero, and the reason why, nearly every time we see him, he's sporting the iconic T-shirt with the Flash logo.

I don't want to brag, but I called this the moment that a Stuart Fails to Save the Universe DC crossover was revealed. But as for continued cameos, I'm not as confident.

It's probably more likely that we'd see every variant of Flash known to man before Sheldon shows up, because TBBT feels like something that's resolutely a part of Parsons' past.

However, adult Sheldon did show up for the Young Sheldon season 7 finale, so anything is possible. But if we're going there, I need George Cooper to be resurrected more than I need to see adult Sheldon again.

In fact, now that we've had Christine Baranski appear as herself, let's get Laurie Metcalf (who played Mary Cooper) back on the scene instead. HBO Max... call me.

The Big Bang Theory's Bernadette as a demon is something I didn't think I'd ever see in Stuart Fails to Save the Universe — but, now that I have, it somehow makes complete sense.

Last week's episode saw us meet her in a wizarding world but, in this week's entry we're swapping the magical action for something a little more One Flew Over the Cuckoo's Nest-coded.

But who, if anyone, really is crazy? And when does Stuart Fails to Save the Universe episode 4 arrive on HBO Max?

What time can I watch Stuart Fails to Save the Universe episode 4 on HBO Max?

For US viewers, Stuart Fails to Save the Universe episode 4 will drop on Thursday, August 13 at 6pm PT/ 9pm ET.

Internationally, you're looking out for these timings:

• US – Thursday, August 13 at 6pm PT / 9pm ET
• Canada – Thursday, August 13 at 6pm PT / 9pm ET
• UK – Friday, August 14 at 2am BST
• India – Friday, August 14 at 6:30am IST
• Singapore – Friday, August 14 at 9am SGT
• Australia – Friday, August 14 at 11am AEDT
• New Zealand – Friday, August 14 at 12pm NZDT

When do new episodes of Stuart Fails to Save the Universe come out?

New episodes of Stuart Fails to Save the Universe will make landfall every Thursday in the US and on Fridays everywhere else. Here are the all-important dates you need to know about:

• Episode 1: out now
• Episode 2: out now
• Episode 3: out now
• Episode 4: August 13
• Episode 5: August 20
• Episode 6: August 27
• Episode 7: September 3
• Episode 8: September 10
• Episode 9: September 17
• Episode 10: September 24

House of the Dragon season 4 has plenty riding on it. With the high-fantasy show's next chapter set to be its final installment, it'll have to deliver a fittingly fiery conclusion to the Targaryen Civil War, and wrap numerous other subplots and character arcs before its final credits sequence rolls.

All of that, and the final season's 2028 launch, feel a long way off at this stage — but that doesn't mean we can't look forward to its eventual release. So, if you want to know more about its possible cast, expected storylines, and more besides, this guide to the Game of Thrones prequel's next chapter is geared towards you.

Hop on, dragonrider, and let's take flight together.

House of the Dragon season 4 release date: what we know

HBO hasn't revealed next season's official launch date yet. However, as part of a multi-show renewal announcement that confirmed House of the Dragon season 4 was in development, the US TV network's boss Casey Bloys said it would premiere sometime in 2028.

Of course, plans can change, but word is that the cameras will start rolling in early 2027. Should that be the case, I'll be more confident that House of the Dragon season 4 will make its HBO Max debut in 2028.

House of the Dragon season 4 trailer: is there one?

Unsurprisingly, no — and we won't see one for a long time yet. Once a trailer for House of the Dragon season 4 is unveiled, I'll update this section.

House of the Dragon season 4 likely cast

Full spoilers follow for House of the Dragon season 3, and Fire and Blood, aka the book the show is based on.

Here's who I expect to see in House of the Dragon season 4:

• Emma D'Arcy as Rhaenyra Targaryen
• Olivia Cooke as Alicent Hightower
• Matt Damon as Daemon Targaryen
• Steve Toussaint as Corlys Velaryon
• Tom Glynn-Carney as Aegon II Targaryen
• Ewan Mitchell as Aemond Targaryen
• Bethany Antonio as Baela Targaryen
• Phoebe Campbell as Rhaena Targaryen
• Abubakar Salim as Alyn of Hull
• Clinton Liberty as Addam of Hull
• Sonoya Mizuno as Mysaria
• Kieran Bew as Hugh Hammer
• Tom Bennett as Ulf the White
• Benjamin Evan Ainsworth as Daeron Targaryen
• Freddie Fox as Gwayne Hightower
• Jefferson Hall as Tyland Lannister
• Gayle Rankin as Alys Rivers
• Joplin Sibtain as Jon Roxton
• Kyrt Egyiawan as Orwyle
• Archie Barnes as Oscar Tully
• Annie Shapero as Alysanne Blackwood
• Dan Fogler as Torrhen Manderly
• Amanda Collin as Jeyne Arryn

Three big names were taken off the proverbial chess board in last season's finale, meaning they won't return for chapter 4.

James Norton's Ormund Hightower and Tommy Flanagan's Roderick Dustin were both gravely injured as part of their Tumbleton duel. The pair were then burned alive by Ulf and his dragon Silverwing in the final throes of said conflict.

Meanwhile, Phia Saban's Helaena committed suicide by throwing herself from a window in Maegar's Holdfast as a way out of being Rhaenyra's perennial prisoner. This trio, then, won't be back for another round.

There are bound to be a few returning faces, including Jamie Kenna's Ser Alfred Broome, while individuals like Ser Marston Waters and an unhinged, so-called prophet known simply as The Shepherd, who are yet to appear in House of the Dragon, might also show up.

In Fire and Blood, Broome and Waters play integral roles in the Fall of Dragonstone and/or other late-game events. Meanwhile, The Shepherd is responsible for instigating the Storming of the Dragonpit, a hugely significant event that was teased as part of Helaena's dream sequence in season 3 episode 7. I have a wild theory about the identity of The Shepherd, though, which you can read more about in my season 3 ending explained article in this guide's plot section.

That all said, House of the Dragon has taken some creative liberties with its source material, so there's no guarantee that this triumvirate will be part of proceedings. Hopefully, it won't be too long until HBO confirms season 4's full cast roster, and we can say with certainty that they, plus other returnees and newcomers, will take part.

House of the Dragon season 4 story speculation

Full spoilers follow for House of the Dragon season 3. Fire and Blood spoilers are also discussed.

Season 4's story synopsis hasn't been revealed yet, but we've got a good idea of what'll happen next

My House of the Dragon season 3 ending explained piece contains some clues about where things will go from here. Meanwhile, those who've read Fire and Blood will definitely know what's in store for Rhaenyra, Aegon II, and everyone else moving forward.

I'm about to dig into some aspects of the latter, so this is your one and only warning: potentially big spoilers immediately follow for House of the Dragon season 4. Skip to the next section if you don't want any major story beats ruined ahead of time.

Still here? You'll already know — or want to know — that there are many more deadly events yet to be played out in the Dance of the Dragons.

Indeed, the Fall of Dragonstone and Storming of the Dragonpit notwithstanding, we should also see live-action depictions of the Battle Above the Gods Eye, the Second Battle of Tumbleton, and the final showdown between Rhaenyra and Aegon II.

Other moments, such as the Moon of the Three Kings, Battle of the Kingsroad, the False Dawn, and Hour of the Wolf could also be adapted. However, House of the Dragon season 4 already has plenty of destructive and life-threatening ground to cover, so I'd be surprised if the latter pair are shown in any great capacity, if at all.

That said, the series could end on an unexpected note. Asked by Business Insider about how he planned on concluding things, Condal replied: "We've talked about this being kind of a World War II movie: There are plenty of World War II movies that exist where you tell the story within this greater war, but the curtain drops at some point in the story, and it's not necessarily with Japan's surrender or Hitler dying in the bunker — these big kind of endpoints where you could say World War II truly ended. You're telling the story within the story.

"So, in no way to comment at all on how we're planning on ending this, but I think that was the trick," he continued. "Because Fire & Blood is a decades-spanning history, the question is really more 'Where do you drop the curtain on this particular story?. We're telling the story of the Dance of the Dragons... at what point do you drop the curtain on this, [in a way] that feels satisfying and like you've told a complete story, but also that leaves certain things open-ended? [By] telling the audience, intentionally, that history marches on."

Before things come to an end, there are many subplots and character arcs to tie up. Those include — but aren't limited to — Rhaenyra potentially losing more allies in Baela, Addam, and Corlys; Aegon and Aemond teaming up to tackle Daeron and Rhaenyra; Alyn having to deal with taking the life of the High Septon under Rhaenyra's orders; and Hugh reckoning with Cat's death, and how that'll impact his loyalty to Rhaenyra.

Furthermore, there will be Alicent learning of Helaena's death and Aegon II's return, Mysaria's possible role in instigating a rebellion against Rhanyera, and Ulf being a dragon-wielding wildcard whose no longer loyal to Team Black or Team Green — and that's just dealing with some of the show's expansive ensemble.

Of course, the biggest question of all is: will House of the Dragon be able to give closure to everyone in the eight, 60-minute-long episodes that remain before its final curtain call? That remains to be seen. But, with other popular shows recently failing to stick the landing from a finale standpoint, Condal and company will hope House of the Dragon doesn't become the latest one to under-deliver for its fanbase.

Will there be a fifth season of House of the Dragon?

Right now, no. Speaking to Deadline in January, HBO boss Casey Bloys replied "yes, that is the idea" when asked if the show will end with season 4. In a separate chat with Deadline this June, showrunner Ryan Condal also said "I think I have said what I have to say about Westeros" — the implication being that, once House of the Dragon's fourth season has ended, it won't return for another outing.

There's always the prospect of HBO replacing Condal with someone else if it felt that a fifth season was necessary, but it would be bizarre to see another individual helm a single season of it. It would be even weirder if House of the Dragon's story continued after season 4, because the show was only intended to cover the Targaryen Civil War as it's outlined in Fire and Blood.

There's plenty more ground to cover with House Targaryen and Westeros more generally post-The Dance of the Dragons. Those stories are arguably best told in separate Thrones spin-offs, though, rather than being the foundations on which to build a fifth season. In short: don't expect to see House of the Dragon season 5 once the show reaches what's expected to be its natural end with its fourth and final installment.

House of the Dragon season 3 episode 8 is out now on HBO Max — and it's an incendiary conclusion to the high-fantasy show's penultimate chapter.

As the dust settles on the Game of Thrones spin-off's latest season, I suspect you've got many burning questions about its finale and how events that transpired will impact House of the Dragon season 4. Worry not, because I'm going to answer — or, at the very least, do my best to answer — your biggest queries about season 3's last entry.

It goes without saying, but full spoilers immediately follow for House of the Dragon season 3's final episode. Turn back now if you haven't watched it yet.

Who dies during the Battle of Tumbleton?

Countless men, women and children. Indeed, whether caught in the Targaryen and Hightower armies' crossfire, or burned alive by Ulf the White and his dragon Silverwing, season 3's final battle is anything but trivial.

There are a couple of hugely important character deaths in this season's finale, too — the most significant of which is Ormund Hightower.

In a duel with Roderick Dustin, aka leader of the Winter Wolves, during the conflict's final throes, Ormund is stabbed up the, well, anus by his adversary, before he's one of many whose lives are ended by Ulf and Silverwing.

Why does Ulf kill him? Because, after Ulf gets drunk and passes out before the battle, he's eventually found by Ormund and his men, and Ormund beats him for his actions. After suffering a similar beatdown at Daemon's hands earlier this season, Ulf's clearly had enough of being humiliated by other lords.

Roderick suffers a similarly fiery demise, set ablaze alongside Ormund on one of Tumbleton's parapets by Silverwing. Moments before, Ormund had stabbed him in the gut and then taken his right forearm. Unlike Ormund, though, Roderick has been chasing death throughout season 3, so he meets his end with a cackle and a cheer, which is further heightened by the impending death of his enemy.

What happens to Daemon, Gwayne, and Daeron in House of the Dragon's season 3 finale?

They all survive — well, we know at least two of them do, anyway.

Where Daemon is concerned, he makes it out alive after almost losing a one-on-one bout with Ormund's right-hand man, Jon Roxton. Before Roxton can deliver a telling blow, however, falling debris caused by one of Silverwing's fiery trench runs separates the pair, allowing them to escape to fight another day. Daemon soon reunites with Corlys Velaryon, who's escaped captivity in the chaos, and the duo flees with the remaining Targaryen forces as Tumbleton burns.

As for Gwayne and Daeron, they manage to evade one of Silverwing's devastating attacks. However, before this season's finale ends, we're only reunited with a dirt-and-blood-covered Gwayne, who appears to be the only survivor of the pair.

Does this mean Daeron is dead? I won't spoil his fate as it's outlined in Fire and Blood, aka the Thrones book House of the Dragon is inspired by. But if we use the old film/TV show trope "no body, no death", we can assume that Daeron the Daring and his dragon Tessarion will be seen again next season.

Does Helaena kill herself in the House of the Dragon season 3 finale?

Yep. You don't fall from a window that high — especially one with giant spikes at the bottom — and live to tell the tale.

Frankly, Helaena's death doesn't come as a surprise. For one, in Fire and Blood, she commits suicide by similarly throwing herself from a window. And, while her death occurs much earlier in House of the Dragon than in the literature, she's not only become a political prisoner of her half-sister Rhaenyra, but has also had her Godswood privileges severely restricted due to Alicent's botched escape plan in this season's fifth episode. It's no shock, then, that we see her become more depressed across season 3's final three chapters.

Of course, when Rhaenyra finds out, she's not overly bothered. Helaena was pregnant and, if she'd birthed a son, he could've challenged Rhaenyra's right to laud it over the Seven Kingdoms (NB: this was a possibility before Rhaenyra learns that half-brother Aegon II is still alive). With Helaena and her unborn child gone, Rhaenyra needs only to focus on eradicating Aegon II, and her rule will be absolute.

The big question now is: what will Alicent do when she finds out that her only daughter committed suicide after Rhaenyra promised to keep her safe? Truthfully, we don't know. Alicent still has a key role to play in the HBO Max fantasy show, but House of the Dragon has played loose and fast with its source material over the past two seasons. I wouldn't be shocked if she tries to cosy up with Aegon II and Aemond in their plan to take back the throne — although, after Alicent tried to kill Aemond at Rhaenyra's behest, I suspect her second-born won't take too kindly to seeing her again. Speaking of Alicent's remaining children...

What happens to Aemond and Aegon II in House of the Dragon's season 3 finale?

The estranged brothers are reunited at Harrenhal and, as I mentioned, concoct a plan — albeit one formulated by Aegon II that Aemond is roped into helping with — to wrest back the Iron Throne.

After Alys saves Aemond's life following his poisoning at Alicent's hands, a sleeping Aemond wakes to the sound of a dragon. Believing it to be the returning Vhagar, he gets up and follows the noise, only to find that his brother and his dragon Sunfyre have seemingly returned from the dead.

After an incredibly tense back-and-forth that also soon involved Alys, Aegon informs his younger sibling that he plans to overthrow Rhaenyra and reclaim the throne. Only once they've found Vhagar — who's integral to the plan — and successfully carried it out will Aegon consider forgiving Aemond for almost killing him and Sunfyre in season 2. An uneasy alliance, this most certainly is.

Does Rhaenyra get officially coronated in House of the Dragon season 3 episode 8?

No. For the second time this season, Rhaenyra's request to be officially ordained by the High Septon is declined.

This time, though, Rhaenyra doesn't take no for an answer. After instructing Alyn of Hull to kill the High Septon in a show of force — a deed Alyn carries out but appears to instantly regret — Rhaenyra leaves the High Sept to address the assembled crowd outside its front doors. There, she tells them about Aegon's Dream, aka The Song of Fire and Ice, aka the prophecy that foretells the coming of the Long Night and the White Walkers, which only a Targaryen and a collective of dragons have the power to oppose. Oh, and that Viserys chose her, not Aegon II, as his true heir, so the commonfolk should follow her over him.

Those who've read Fire and Blood, and/or know their Westerosi history, will be well aware of where things go from here for Rhaenyra. I won't spoil what lies in store for her, but I do want to briefly touch on a new theory I have about her former Mistress of Whispers, Mysaria...

Is Mysaria being positioned as The Shepherd in House of the Dragon?

Amid everything else that happens in House of the Dragon's season 3 finale, it would be easy to forget that Mysaria is surprisingly relieved of her duties by Rhaenyra. Clearly, the latter no longer trusts the former after what happened this season.

That firing could prove to be Rhaenyra's downfall, though. Without getting into the finer details of Fire and Blood, her reign is destabilized by a mysterious figure known simply as The Shepherd, who eventually incites an uprising against Rhaenyra.

In Fire and Blood, The Shepherd is depicted as a one-handed, religious fanatic who preaches that dragons are demons and Rhaenyra is a false queen. And, while I expect House of the Dragon's version of The Shepherd to play a similarly vital role in season 4 (more on this shortly), I think this character will be retroactively fitted to be Mysaria in disguise.

Think about it. Mysaria was not only known as the White Worm but also the leader of a spy/informant network before being hired as Rhaenyra's Mistress of Whispers. If anyone can incite a riot against Rhaenyra, especially as someone who's been betrayed by, and has an ax to grind with, the current monarch, it's Mysaria. I wouldn't be amazed, then, if Mysaria becomes The Shepherd in all but name next season.

When will House of the Dragon season 4 be released?

House of the Dragon season 4 doesn't have a confirmed launch date yet. However, as long as principal photography begins in early 2027, it's widely expected to premiere at some point in 2028. That much was made clear when House of the Dragon was renewed for a fourth and final season last November.

Oh, didn't you know? House of the Dragon will end with season 4. HBO boss Casey Bloys (per Deadline) and showrunner Ryan Condal (again, via Deadline) have confirmed that'll be the case, so don't expect a fifth season to materialize once the series' fourth installment is over.

House of the Dragon season 3 has reached its endpoint. Indeed, with its final episode due to air on numerous TV networks and streaming platforms shortly, we'll be bidding farewell to the Game of Thrones spin-off until its fourth and final season arrives in 2028.

But, let's deal with the here and now. Last week's chapter was full of explosive moments, including the revelation that Sunfyre is alive, Rhaenyra learning that Rhaena was responsible for Jace's death, and Ulf the White all but defecting to the Greens ahead of the long-awaited Battle of Tumbleton, among many other plot points. In short: this season's finale has got plenty of storylines to tackle and/or wrap up.

Thankfully, we don't have long to wait to see if it'll cap off the series' fieriest season yet. So, when will season 3 episode 8 premiere?

What is the launch time for House of the Dragon season 3 episode 8?

Unless the HBO TV Original's release is unexpectedly brought forward, the final episode of House of the Dragon's third season will come out on Sunday, August 9 at 6pm PT / 9pm ET.

Well, that'll be the case in the US and Canada. Viewers in other nations will need to tune into their platform of choice on Monday, August 10 at the following times instead:

• US — Sunday, August 9 at 6pm PT / 9pm ET
• Canada — Sunday, August 9 at 6pm PT / 9pm ET
• UK — Monday, August 10 at 2am BST
• India — Monday, August 10 at 6:30am IST
• Singapore — Monday, August 10 at 9am SGT
• Australia — Monday, August 10 at 11am AEST
• New Zealand — Monday, August 10 at 1pm NZST

Where can I watch House of the Dragon season 3 episode 8?

Just like every other entry, House of the Dragon season 3's next installment will premiere on HBO Max, aka one of the world's best streaming services, wherever it's available.

Admittedly, the Warner Bros. Discovery (WBD) platform hasn't launched in every country yet. Nevertheless, there are other channels and streamers that it'll drop on across the globe.

Unsure of where you'll be able to find season 3 episode 8? Check out the list below:

• US — HBO and HBO Max
• Canada — Crave
• UK — HBO Max, Sky Atlantic, and Now TV
• India — JioHotstar
• Singapore — HBO Max
• Australia — HBO Max
• New Zealand — HBO Max

Will there be a fourth season of House of the Dragon?

Yes. As I mentioned up top, House of the Dragon season 4 is not only already in development, but will also be the program's last hurrah.

Last November, House of the Dragon was one of many HBO TV shows that were renewed for another season. As part of that announcement, it was revealed that the Thrones prequel's final season will be ready to go at some point in 2028, too. Whether that's still the case remains to be seen but, if filming gets underway on House of the Dragon season 4 in early 2027 as expected, a 2028 launch will be more likely than not.

Did you expect film and TV's Christine Baranski to be an AI overlord in an alternate universe in Stuart Fails to Save the Universe episode 2? No? Me neither.

I wouldn't at all be surprised if this week's episode 3 ups the ante even further. While details are largely being kept under wraps, we can expect Stuart (Kevin Sussman), Denise (Lauren Lapkus), Kripke (John Ross Bowie) and Bert (Brian Posehn) to a more magical realm, with a wizarding world of a comic book store to boot.

Consider me strapped in. So, when does Stuart Fails to Save the Universe episode 3 arrive on HBO Max?

What time can I watch Stuart Fails to Save the Universe episode 3 on HBO Max?

For US viewers, Stuart Fails to Save the Universe episode 3 will drop on Thursday, August 6 at 6pm PT/ 9pm ET.

Internationally, you're looking out for these timings:

• US – 6pm PT / 9pm ET
• Canada – 6pm PT / 9pm ET
• UK – Friday, August 7 at 2am BST
• India – Friday, August 7 at 6:30am IST
• Singapore – Friday, August 7 at 9am SGT
• Australia – Friday, August 7 at 11am AEDT
• New Zealand – Friday, August 7 at 12pm NZDT

When do new episodes of Stuart Fails to Save the Universe come out?

New episodes of Stuart Fails to Save the Universe will make landfall every Thursday in the US and on Fridays everywhere else. Here are the all-important dates you need to know about:

• Episode 1: out now
• Episode 2: out now
• Episode 3: August 6
• Episode 4: August 13
• Episode 5: August 20
• Episode 6: August 27
• Episode 7: September 3
• Episode 8: September 10
• Episode 9: September 17
• Episode 10: September 24

Mild spoilers for Stuart Fails to Save the Universe episode 2 ahead.

Even with episode 2 of The Big Bang Theory spinoff bringing back Penny (Kaley Cuoco) and film and TV's Christine Baranski in cameo roles, Stuart Fails to Save the Universe has had a rough week of press.

With the title card for the new HBO Max show uploaded to X/Twitter last week, fans wasted no time branding the cartoonish explosion as "AI slop."

"Has everyone just forgotten things are supposed to be pleasant to look at?" one fan replied, with a second adding, "Crazy to build the entire intro around saying 'Don’t skip! Appreciate the work we put into this!' when it’s so clearly AI slop."

As of writing, there has currently been no comment on whether AI was used to help make the title sequence, but now that episode 2 has been released, they will change with each episode.

Regardless, I can't help wondering if the AI-look (real or not) is distracting us from what's really going on in the titles: the fact that there will be a hidden message somewhere along the way.

'The point of the titles was to entertain'

"Yeah, there was," Chuck Lorre tells me when I tell him that I've been psyching myself out over a potential hidden message in the changing Stuart Fails to Save the Universe titles.

"The point of the titles was to entertain and cause more laughter... not to dazzle anyone with our extraordinary ability to do special effects. They had to be worth viewing."

"The only way to not skip the titles was to make each title have a different comic premise. Danny Elfman even went ahead and changed the theme song every week."

"It's great that you had that reaction... that's what we want," Zak Penn adds.

Does Lorre's remark mean that AI definitely wasn't used? It's difficult to say. But the title card script is slowly gaslighting us into believing we're missing something — and without giving too much away, that's going to become more obvious as the weeks go by.

Is there more than meets the eye to the titles that even I haven't spotted? The answer is probably yes. But only Lorre, Penn and Bill Prady know for definite, and I'm not entirely sure if their responses were simply trying to catch me out again.

House of the Dragon season 3 doesn't have long left to deliver on the action spectacle front. Indeed, only two more episodes of the Game of Thrones prequel's latest installment remain, so we're going to get the endlessly teased Battle of Tumbleton before it ends, right?

Considering House of the Dragon 3's mid-season trailer confirmed we would, that's a given — but will we get to see it in this week's chapter, or is it being held back for the season 3 finale? That, I don't know. What I can tell you, though, is when the high-fantasy show's next entry will be released, so read on to learn more.

What is the launch time for House of the Dragon season 3 episode 7?

Episode 7 of House of the Dragon's latest season will launch at 6pm PT / 9pm ET on Sunday, July 26 in the US and Canada.

Where viewers in other nations are concerned, it'll premiere on Monday, July 27 — and the below release times are when you'll need to tune in to see it as soon as it goes live:

• US — Sunday, July 26 at 6pm PT / 9pm ET
• Canada — Sunday, July 26 at 6pm PT / 9pm ET
• UK — Monday, July 27 at 2am BST
• India — Monday, July 27 at 6:30am IST
• Singapore — Monday, July 27 at 9am SGT
• Australia — Monday, July 27 at 11am AEST
• New Zealand — Monday, July 27 at 1pm NZST

Where can I watch House of the Dragon season 3 episode 7?

Just like every other episode of season 3, this week's entry will air on HBO Max, aka one of the world's best streaming services.

Warner Bros. Discovery's (WBD) super streamer isn't available worldwide, though, so some of you will have to locate it on another streaming platform or TV network. To help you out, the list below reveals where you can catch it in your neck of the woods. You're welcome in advance:

• US — HBO and HBO Max
• Canada — Crave
• UK — HBO Max, Sky Atlantic, and Now TV
• India — JioHotstar
• Singapore — HBO Max
• Australia — HBO Max
• New Zealand — HBO Max

When does the season 3 finale of House of the Dragon come out?

Unless HBO (aka the WBD-owned network that oversees Game of Thrones' TV adaptations) unexpectedly brings the season 3 finale's release date forward, it'll drop in early August.

For US and Canadian readers, it'll launch on Sunday, August 2. Everyone else will be able to watch it on Monday, August 3.

It's time to bid farewell to July 2026 — and, if you won't be heading out to catch Spider-Man: Brand New Day this weekend, you're going to need something to watch at home instead.

Thankfully, the world's best streaming services have plenty of great-looking new movies and shows for you to check out before Monday arrives once more. Don't delay, then — scroll on to see what you'll be adding to your watchlist ahead of the new working week. — Tom Power, senior entertainment reporter

The Devil Wears Prada 2 (Hulu/Disney+)

Gird your loins, people: The Devil Wears Prada 2 is finally available to stream on Hulu and Disney+. As an 11-year old girl who grew up wanting to be Andy Sachs, I can safely say that nothing has changed 20 years later.

This time around, Andy is brought back into the Runway Magazine fold when Miranda comes under fire for printing false information in an article. As the new Features Editor, it's Andy's job to navigate a PR crisis fit for the 2020s, which includes getting a little help from Emily.

With all of the nostalgia and dreamy fashion montages you could hope for, and an new original song by Doechii and Lady Gaga that slaps, I'll be watching this over and again. — Jasmine Valentine, entertainment reporter

• Watch The Devil Wears Prada 2 on Hulu (US) and Disney+ (internationally)

The Super Mario Galaxy Movie (Peacock)

Yahoo! Almost fourh months after it initially landed in theaters, The Super Mario Galaxy Movie has finally made its official streaming debut on Peacock.

Mario's latest animated adventure is way more polarizing than its predecessor, yet it still managed to pull in $1 billion at the worldwide box office. For that reason alone, it's probably worth giving it a whirl — but, seeing as you'll need something to entertain the kids for 90 minutes or so, it's definitely worth putting on.

But, I digress. For those who might not know: this time around, Mario and his allies traverse the cosmos as they attempt to stop Bowser and Bowser Jr from enacting a new masterplan that would see them kidnap Princess Rosalina and drain her cosmic powers to build a super weapon. Expect plenty of Nintendo Easter eggs and references in this multiverse-esque sequel that certainly acts as a jumping off point for a shared Nintendo cinematic universe. — TP

• Watch The Super Mario Galaxy Movie on Peacock

The Drama (HBO Max)

The first of three films that Zendaya and Robert Pattinson appear in this year, A24's dark rom-com drama called, well, The Drama has made its debut on HBO Max.

Starring the aforementioned A-listers, it tells the tale of soon-to-be-newlyweds Emma and Charlie, whose forthcoming wedding is derailed when a particularly dark secret comes to light. The twist in question? Honestly, it's best if you go into the movie knowing as little as humanly possible, because it's such a blind-siding narrative device that it's too good to spoil here. Get it watched ASAP, because I imagine it's all you and your work colleagues will be talking about come Monday. — TP

• Watch The Drama on HBO Max

The Bombing of Pan Am 103 (Netflix)

There are some national tragedies that are so horrifically terrible, history is forever changed. In Scotland and the US, this was the Bombing of Pan Am 103, which is now a Netflix docuseries of the same name.

In a nutshell: on 21 December 1988, flight Pan Am 103 was en route from Heathrow to JFK when a bomb exploded in its hold over Lockerbie, killing all 270 people, including 43 British citizens and 190 Americans, on board, and spawning an international investigation involving local law enforcement and the FBI.

The community of Lockerbie has definitely never been the same since, with the attack leading to the Aviation Security Improvement Act of 1990. Be prepared for a difficult yet emotionally poignant watch. — JV

• Watch The Bombing of Pan Am 103 on Netflix

Batman: Caped Crusader season 2 (Prime Video)

Batman is back — well, in Amazon's animated TV show, that is. That's right, season 2 of Batman: Caped Crusader has made its Prime Video debut, so fans of the Dark Knight have some new content to consume while the wait for The Batman Part II goes on.

This season, the eponymous vigilante and friends are forced to navigate an increasingly combustible turf war and the arrival of new iterations of the Caped Crusader's packed rogues gallery. Eager to see the Big Bad Bat go up against Joker, Scarecrow, Riddler, and more for the umpteenth time? Caped Crusader season 2 should be your first streaming port of call this weekend. — TP

• Watch Batman: Caped Crusader season 2 on Prime Video

Furious (Hulu/Disney+)

Female police chasing female serial killers? It's almost as if the glory days of Killing Eve are back. This time, the dynamic comes courtesy of Furious, which has already been described by critics as one of the best shows of 2026, which is seriously high praise.

I've got a hunch that this is mostly down to its leads in Shameless' Emmy Rossum, and Lola Petticrew, who was absolutely astonishing in Trespasses and Say Nothing. What's even better is that it's set in the 1980s and allegedly has a vert satisfying payoff. Ticks all of the great crime drama boxes, if you ask me. — JV

• Watch Furious on Hulu (US) and Disney+ (internationally)

Lioness season 3 (Paramount+)

We've been without a new Taylor Sheridan show for the first time in 2026 this month, but never fear... Lioness season 3 is here. And, by here, I mean on Paramount+.

Joe continues to walk the line between duty and home as "unseen forces" circle her world. Frankly, I think this means that we should do a fan sweepstake on just how many minutes of each episode she's going to be shouting for. My guess is 42 out of 48 minutes.

What's even more impressive is how Lioness season 3 has managed to retain Nicole Kidman and Morgan Freeman in their supporting roles. That's the brilliance of a Taylor Sheridan series, I guess. — JV

• Watch Lioness season 3 on Paramount+

Spoilers for Stuart Fails to Save the Universe episode 2 ahead.

We've jumped into a completely different universe in Stuart Fails to Save the Universe episode 2, waving the Mad Max feel of the initial post-apocalyptic world goodbye (thankfully).

However, there's a new problem in the new HBO Max show. Stuart (Kevin Sussman), Denise (Lauren Lapkus), Kripke (John Ross Bowie) and Bert (Brian Posehn) have landed somewhere where everybody is incessantly nice to each other... a little too nice, if anything.

As Stuart quickly finds out, this is because they each have a device attached to their neck to prevent them from being mean or exhibiting any kind of bad behavior. If they try to fight it, they get tased from the inside, and eventually, shipped off to an AI correctional facility.

After years of rehabilitation (really, it's about two minutes), we find out that Penny (Kaley Cuoco) is leading the rebellion against the AI overlords, eventually helping the gang escape after she trusts them enough.

But while Penny is a Big Bang Theory cameo that fans have been waiting for, it's not the one that I think is the most interesting. For that, we need to look to the universe's AI overlord herself... film and TV's Christine Baranski.

'I think she was forced into it'

Yes, that's right... Christine Baranski is the person in charge of this AI uprising. Via video, she explains to the gang what the neck devices are and why society needs them, giving creators Chuck Lorre, Zak Penn, and Bill Prady ample opportunity to criticize the growing use of AI in the entertainment industry.

TBBT fans will know that Baranski played Leonard's (Johnny Galecki) absent and standoffish mother Beverly in the original series. But in this universe, Beverly clearly doesn't exist.

"I think she was forced into doing it... not in real life, but in this universe," Penn tells me about Baranski's cameo. "In real life, she was totally willing. But in that universe, I don't think she had a choice but to record that message.

"Maybe it would be better if she was driving that universe... but she's not. She might end up getting accused of collaboration with the AI overlords, but I think that AI made her an offer that she couldn't refuse."

Prady adds, "We'll have to see how the rebellion goes and what happens afterwards. What do they do to her afterwards?"

"She'd be tried," Lorre agrees. "Well there we go — there's something we can do if we get a second season."

Lorre's comment suggests that this is a one-and-done appearance from Baranski in Stuart Fails to Save the Universe, but Penn's take on AI is particularly interesting in the week after fans accused the show's title sequence in episode 1 of being "AI slop."

Whether the titles were actually generated by AI is unconfirmed, but episode 2 suggests that the team clearly doesn't think the technology is a good thing.

As I tell the trio, if anybody can lead us through perilous technological times, I'd put all my faith in film and TV's Christine Baranski.

Even without being directly tied to The Big Bang Theory, there's an incredibly satisfying reason for why fans should invest in new HBO Max spinoff Stuart Fails to Save the Universe: how returnable it is.

By that, I mean the comedy series could easily run for five, 10, or even a million more seasons and not dip in quality or have any continuity issues. Because there's an infinite number of universes to explore, Stuart Fails to Save the Universe could be taken in any number of zany directions and still make complete sense.

In an age where high-quality TV shows are often being axed before they've been in streamable orbit for more than a month, the idea of this alone is refreshing. However, I do have an ulterior motive for wanting Chuck Lorre, Bill Prady and Zak Penn's latest creation to last for as long as possible.

Given enough time, I think that Stuart Fails to Save the Universe could course-correct the biggest mistake that the overarching world it spins off from has ever made, affecting both TBBT and subsequent spinoff Young Sheldon before anybody realized it was a huge issue. Frankly, it's a grudge I've held onto tightly for the last two years (at best).

So when I had the chance to interview the creative trio for their new HBO Max comedy, I wasted no time pitching my story idea for future seasons. I knew it was solid, but I wasn't expecting them to genuinely consider it.

The pitch: bring George Cooper back to life

The biggest mistake TBBT ever made was killing off George Cooper before he was even a realized character in Young Sheldon. In fact, the decision was so poorly judged that Lorre publicly apologized for it after George's funeral in Young Sheldon season 7.

Let me explain. When we first meet adult Sheldon (Jim Parsons) in TBBT, we learn that his father had died of a heart attack when he was a teenager, and was described as mean, absent, an adulterer and sometimes abusive alcoholic. The less said about him the better, put it that way.

But by the time Young Sheldon took off in 2017, we learned another version of Sheldon's (Iain Armitage) truth. For most of his childhood in Medford, Texas, George (Lance Barber) did everything he could to try and understand a child that seemed so alien to him. Even George's alleged affair was disproved, turning out to be Sheldon's mother Mary (Zoe Perry) in a wig.

George took Sheldon for his first-ever visit to his future academic home CalTech, drove him to NASA's headquarters just so Sheldon could prove their math was wrong, and let him talk about scientific methods beyond George's comprehension for hours on end simply because it made Sheldon happy. If you ask me, he was an incredible dad.

But the fact that George would have to die around the time Sheldon was 14 was hanging over our heads from the moment the prequel spinoff was realized. I don't think anybody expected Young Sheldon to become the gargantuan success that it was, and by the time we got to season 7, the inevitable happened.

Episodes 12-14 of season 7 were dedicated to unpacking George's death, which happened off-screen while he was coaching football at the local high school. It's something that destroyed the rest of the Cooper family for good, with follow-up spinoff Georgie & Mandy's First Marriage continuing to help explore how Mary, Missy (Raegan Revord) and Georgie (Montana Jordan) all ended up becoming the people we meet in TBBT years later.

To me, George's death never actually needed to happen in Young Sheldon. Enough distance had been created between the prequel and TBBT to ignore adult Sheldon's vision of his childhood altogether, even if it couldn't be officially rectified. Worst case, they could have waited until season 7 had finished before implying that the death might have happened at some point between Young Sheldon and Georgie & Mandy's First Marriage.

But instead, I sobbed through Mary breaking down after learning her husband had died, and cried my way through his funeral the next week (watching live at 1am UK time, which was a bad decision). I was so distraught and frustrated by the team's choices that I even wrote George a fake obituary, which actually led to me interviewing Barber himself.

Now that Stuart Fails to Save the Universe has come along, we've got a unique chance to change history for the better.

'The universe you're looking for is out there — whether it makes it to TV is another question'

So here's the idea: by the time we get many seasons into Stuart Fails to Save the Universe, Stuart will likely know how to control multiverse travel a whole lot better than he does at the moment. Logically, he could then visit a universe where George was never killed and voilà... TBBT's costly mistake is put behind us indefinitely.

If Parsons eventually has a cameo in the show too, all the better. There's no such thing as the "right" version of reality here... any one of them we come across could be where the story anchors down for good. So why shouldn't a universe fans are actually happy with be chosen in that case? It's a no-brainer decision, if you ask me.

"Let's discuss this when we're doing those future seasons," Lorre tells me, like I've just stormed into the HBO Max head office and requested a legitimate pitch meeting. "One thing you need to know is that we're not really thinking that far ahead… we're just trying to solve whatever is right in front of us."

"We'll definitely keep your ideas in mind," Penn follows up with. "There are an infinite number of universes within this universe, so the universe that you're looking for is going to exist by definition. Whether it makes it to TV is another question."

"Actually, there's a mathematical issue with that," Prady adds. "The fact that there's an infinite number of universes doesn't guarantee the existence of a particular universe."

I tell the trio that this isn't the positive mindset that I'm looking for, but even as they laugh at my unhinged fan plan delivered with so much gusto that it could have broken even Sheldon's brain, I'm convinced that I've planted an important seed.

Stuart Fails to Save the Universe being renewed for more seasons feels like a given at this point, even if HBO Max hasn't officially confirmed anything as of writing. But the confidence with which the trio talk about the future suggests that we won't be done with the multiverse fun after 10 episodes.

So remember these words if you ever see George Cooper have a surprise cameo in the series, and remember who made the retcon magic happen. You're welcome, in advance.

If your head is still spinning from the first episode of Stuart Fails to Save the Universe, I can't say that I blame you.

Not only were we walked through how comic book store owner Stuart managed to break the device that set off the 'multiverse Armageddon' we've since been thrown into, but a huge Big Bang Theory character has already been killed off... in a manner of speaking.

This week, we're going to officially universe jump for the first time. So, when does Stuart Fails to Save the Universe episode 2 arrive on HBO Max?

What time can I watch Stuart Fails to Save the Universe episode 2 on HBO Max?

For US viewers, Stuart Fails to Save the Universe episode 2 will drop on Thursday, July 30 at 6pm PT/ 9pm ET.

Internationally, you're looking out for these timings:

• US – 6pm PT / 9pm ET
• Canada – 6pm PT / 9pm ET
• UK – Friday, July 31 at 2am BST
• India – Friday, July 31 at 6:30am IST
• Singapore – Friday, July 31 at 9am SGT
• Australia – Friday, July 31 at 11am AEDT
• New Zealand – Friday, July 31 at 12pm NZDT

When do new episodes of Stuart Fails to Save the Universe come out?

New episodes of Stuart Fails to Save the Universe will make landfall every Thursday in the US and on Fridays everywhere else. Here are the all-important dates you need to know about:

• Episode 1: out now
• Episode 2: July 30
• Episode 3: August 6
• Episode 4: August 13
• Episode 5: August 20
• Episode 6: August 27
• Episode 7: September 3
• Episode 8: September 10
• Episode 9: September 17
• Episode 10: September 24

Spoilers for Stuart Fails to Save the Universe episode 1 ahead.

Stuart Fails to Save the Universe episode 1 has arrived, and is now available to stream worldwide on HBO Max.

In short, our "starting" versions of Stuart (Kevin Sussman), Denise (Lauren Lapkus), Kripke (John Ross Bowie) and Bert (Brian Posehn) live in a reality akin to The Walking Dead, complete with Mad Max-style apocalyptic outposts and wasps that are the size of cars.

Stuart accidentally triggered this multiverse Armageddon after breaking a device supposedly built by Sheldon (Jim Parsons) and Leonard (Johnny Galecki).

Shortly after Kripke, that universe's leader, is confronted by the rest of the group, we meet our first secret TBBT cameo: Raj (Kunal Nayyar). He's basically become a doomsday prepper, working on plans on a blackboard for how to get the device working and get the hell outta dodge.

But just as quickly as we've met him, Raj is killed while the others safely teleport to... well, hopefully somewhere better. It's a bold move, and one that has shocked fans if social media is anything to go by.

However, we've been so caught up in Raj's death that we haven't considered one major detail... it hasn't really happened at all.

Only one version of Raj is now dead... and it's certainly not the one from The Big Bang Theory

Did you forget? This is just one version of Raj in one universe, meaning there's still an infinite number of Raj's out there to be found.

As none of the versions of the characters we're meeting are actually the ones seen in TBBT, original Raj is safely in California doing some science equations in peace (probably).

This doesn't even rule out Raj appearing again later on in Stuart Fails to Save the Universe. Now that we know he's a confirmed cameo for the HBO Max spinoff, it would be silly not to use him again where possible. With the overarching narrative so difficult to predict, the possibilities are endless.

If nothing else, this now means that we're likely to see other TBBT cast members cameo in other episodes, and whether they're killed off or not. However, who these cameos might be is anybody's guess.

What we do know for episodes 2-10 is pretty minimal, but the below preview gives us the faintest idea of what to expect. Strap in, is all I'm saying.

Huzzah, another weekend is upon us — and, amid the lack of new movies landing in theaters today (July 24), you might be inclined to stay at home and check one of the following seven must-see films and TV shows instead.

There are a couple of new releases we couldn't squeeze into this week's streaming round-up — sorry, Star Trek: Strange New Worlds season 4 and The Dink. Nevertheless, I'm sure you'll find something to your liking from those we've listed below. So, take a look, load up one of the best streaming services, and sit back and enjoy one or more of them. — Tom Power, senior entertainment reporter

Stuart Fails to Save the Universe (HBO Max)

And what if I said that The Big Bang Theory spinoff Stuart Fails to Save the Universe was better than the original series? Nobody was expecting awkward comic book store owner Stuart's story to continue from the main show, but in hindsight, it's a glorious move.

Our titular heroic lead, on-off girlfriend Denise, and friends Kripke and Bert are brought back together when Stuart triggers a multiverse armageddon by accidentally breaking a device built by Sheldon and Leonard.

Has 'King of Sitcoms' Chuck Lorre done it again? You'll need to read my Stuart Fails to Save the Universe review to find out if it's th TV triumph that I never expected. — Jasmine Valentine, entertainment reporter

• Watch Stuart Fails to Save the Universe on HBO Max

Avatar Aang: The Last Airbender (Paramount+)

It's been 13 years since the gang defeated Lord Ozai and the Fire Nation, and attentions have turned to a new airbender called Tagah. Together, Aang and Tagah embark on a global quest to find the relic before a group called The Denied.

Aang is all grown up in Avatar Aang: The Last Airbender, but that doesn't mean the original magic has gone anywhere. The movie's understanding of perspective, movement, and detail is absolutely astonishing, moving through the Four Nations with such awe-inspired wonder that you'll want to live in each frame.

Time may have changed how they look, but their goofy and fun-loving personalities definitely haven't... and the animation captures exactly what has been missing from Netflix's live-action adaptation. — JV

• Watch Avatar Aang: The Last Airbender on Paramount+

72 Hours (Netflix)

In this new Netflix movie, Kevin Hart stars as a 40-year-old who ends up at a three-day bachelor party with strangers, resulting in yet another silly Hart-led venture that's perfect if you need of a laugh this weekend.

How did he end up there, you might ask? Well, he was mistakenly added to a group chat and went along for the ride, traveling from New York to Miami to join in the celebrations. Any excuse to party by the beach, I suppose.

It's not so idyllic though, as the trailer teases trouble with the law and other mishaps, including getting horribly stung by a jellyfish. Rather him than me. — Lucy Buglass, senior entertainment writer

• Watch 72 Hours on Netflix

Mortal Kombat II (HBO Max)

Flawless victory! Mortal Kombat II is now available to stream on HBO Max, so you can relive the action-packed video game adaptation whenever you'd like.

As far as weekend watches go, you really can't beat an over-the-top, violent thrill ride like this one. If you're a fan of The Boys, Karl Urban's portrayal of Johnny Cage has been widely praised, with some noting it's worth watching just for him. — LB

• Watch Mortal Kombat II on HBO Max

Pompeii: Out of Time with Tom Hiddleston (Hulu/Disney+)

Think you know the complete story of Pompeii? Hold that thought, because Marvel star Tom Hiddleston sheds new light on this cataclysmic event in one of the more poignant docudramas I've seen in a while.

A three-part National Geographic series, Pompeii: Out of Time follows Hiddleston as he retraces the steps of a trio of individuals caught up in the natural disaster. Armed with fresh archaeological evidence and backed up by a team of experts, Hiddleston explores how these people not only navigated one of the worst humanitarian crises of the ancient world, but who might also have even survived the deadly events of 79 A.D.

Part educational, part moving drama, Pompeii: Out of Time is out now in full on Disney+ and Hulu. — TP

• Watch Pompeii: Out of Time with Tom Hiddleston on National Geographic via Hulu (US) and Disney+ (internationally)

Ransom Canyon season 2 (Netflix)

I don't need all of my television to be profound, life-changing, or even that meaningful. Sometimes, I just want to switch my brain off and pretend I live in a picturesque, rural town like Ransom Canyon on the other side of the world where everyone has unrelenting drama except me.

In season 2, the land feud between the Double K and Fuller ranches has become more ferocious, local bar owner Quinn has left for New York despite her on-off relationship with rancher Staten, and mysterious newcomer Yancy has revealed to new love interest Ellie that he has a secret wife.

Season 1 was already a strong outing, but now that the show knows itself a little more, season 2 is easily on par with the strongest seasons of Virgin River, the streamer's most iconic "cozy drama" IP. — JV

• Watch Ransom Canyon season 2 on Netflix

Masters of the Universe (Prime Video)

One of numerous mid-2026 film releases that have bombed at the box office, Amazon has hoisted the proverbial white flag on its live-action Masters of the Universe movie's theatrical run. In short: that means you can now watch it on Prime Video.

Based on the Mattel-owned media franchise of the same name, the action fantasy flick tells the tale of Adam, the crown prince of Eternia and owner of an mystical weapon called the Power Sword that, when wielded, turns him into the superhuman known as He-Man. Together with his allies, the previously exiled Adam must realize his potential and overthrow the nefarious Skeletor, who seized control of Adam's home city of Eternos — and its throne — 15 years earlier.

Not sure if you'll like this flick? Read my Masters of the Universe review to see what I thought before you stream it. — TP

• Watch Masters of the Universe on Prime Video

House of the Dragon season 3 continues to engross us as it enters its home stretch. And, with its sixth episode less than 72 hours away, we'll soon find out how Houses Targaryen and Hightower will continue to try to one-up each other as the battle for the Iron Throne intensifies.

Does that mean we'll soon bear witness the highly anticipated Battle of Tumbleton between Ormund Hightower and Daemon Targaryen's armies? Or are more political machinations and infighting going to be the order of the day? You'll have to wait and see. In the meantime, scroll on to learn when and where House of the Dragon's next episode will air.

What time can I watch House of the Dragon season 3 episode 6?

House of the Dragon season 3's next chapter will be released on Sunday, July 26 at 6pm PT / 9pm ET.

That's when the Game of Thrones spin-off's forthcoming episode will be available in the US and Canada, anyway. If you live elsewhere, you'll have to wait until Monday, July 27 to stream it. Here are the all-important times you need to know about:

• US — Sunday, July 26 at 6pm PT / 9pm ET
• Canada — Sunday, July 26 at 6pm PT / 9pm ET
• UK — Monday, July 27 at 2am BST
• India — Monday, July 27 at 6:30am IST
• Singapore — Monday, July 27 at 9am SGT
• Australia — Monday, July 27 at 11am AEST
• New Zealand — Monday, July 27 at 1pm NZST

Where can I watch House of the Dragon season 3 episode 6?

HBO Max, aka one of the best streaming services, is the place that most people will need to go to watch House of the Dragon's next episode.

Unfortunately, that platform isn't available worldwide, so some of you will have to look elsewhere to stream it. Luckily for you, I've put in the hard yards and found out where House of the Dragon can be watched in your nation, so check out the list below to see which streamer or TV network you'll need to tune into:

• US — HBO and HBO Max
• Canada — Crave
• UK — HBO Max, Sky Atlantic, and Now TV
• India — JioHotstar
• Singapore — HBO Max
• Australia — HBO Max
• New Zealand — HBO Max

How many more episodes are there in House of the Dragon 3?

After its sixth entry is released, there'll only be two more to enjoy before the high-fantasy show's latest season comes to an end.

Want to know what dates episodes 7 and 8 will launch on? Of course you do, so read on for more details:

• House of the Dragon season 3 episode 1 — out now
• House of the Dragon season 3 episode 2 — out now
• House of the Dragon season 3 episode 3 — out now
• House of the Dragon season 3 episode 4— out now
• House of the Dragon season 3 episode 5 — out now
• House of the Dragon season 3 episode 6 — July 26/27
• House of the Dragon season 3 episode 7 — August 2/3
• House of the Dragon season 3 episode 8 — August 9/10

I can't say that I've been paying too much attention to what's happening at San Diego Comic Con, but I certainly didn't expect new Big Bang Theory spinoff Stuart Fails to Save the Universe and the DC universe to be mentioned in the same breath.

According to Nerdist, DC President Jim Lee made a surprise appearance at the HBO Max show's panel in Hall H, confirming that multiple DC characters will cameo later in the season.

“Some of the DC characters they have in it, I think, are some of the best versions I’ve seen of those characters,” Lee said during the panel.

In other words, watch out James Gunn. With Supergirl failing to make much impact earlier this year, maybe Stuart Fails to Save the Universe actually is the best DC Universe iteration we'll get in 2026.

If you've been watching the teaser trailers closely, you might have seen underrated characters such as Gotham villain Mr. Freeze have already featured. But if creators really want to bring the existing Big Bang Theory lore full circle, the show can't omit the superhero that's been staring us in the face for years.

Stuart Fails to Save the Universe's DC crossover need to include The Flash to commemorate — or spite — Sheldon

Even if you've only watched one episode of Big Bang Theory in your lifetime, my campaign for The Flash to join the Stuart Fails to Save the Universe x DC episode hopefully won't come as a surprise.

He's Sheldon's (Jim Parsons) favorite DC superhero, and the reason why, nearly every time we see him, he's sporting the iconic T-shirt with the Flash logo.

We're going to be on tenterhooks for all of the new show's 10-episode run to see if Sheldon makes a cameo appearance, and dropping in The Flash as a potential clue could be a really fun way for the creators to mess with us.

On the flip side, a Flash cameo could also work to either spite or celebrate Sheldon. The reason why Stuart (Kevin Sussman) is in this multiverse mess in the first place is because he broke a device built by Sheldon and Leonard (Johnny Galecki); bringing his favorite superhero closer to home could be a great way to apologize.

However, this is a multiverse show, so The Flash likely won't be appearing in the Sheldon we know's reality. So if another Sheldon met the Flash instead... our one would be furious. That, in itself, is hilarious.

At this point, I'm purely speculating. We've got no idea which DC characters will appear in Stuart Fails to Save the Universe, nor do we know exactly which episode they will be in. Regardless, we can definitely assume that the crossover will be an epic one.

Don't ask me what happened in any single episode of The Big Bang Theory, because I honestly can't remember.

Across 12 seasons, a myriad of in-jokes, long-standing gags and endless scientific lore were created, and you can bet your bottom dollar that hardcore fans won't have forgotten a single thing.

This level of detail initially made me nervous to try watching new HBO Max spinoff, Stuart Fails to Save the Universe.

Our titular heroic lead, on-off girlfriend Denise (Lauren Lapkus), as well as friends Kripke (John Ross Bowie) and Bert (Brian Posehn), are brought back together when Stuart (Kevin Sussman) triggers a multiverse armageddon by accidentally breaking a device built by Sheldon (Jim Parsons) and Leonard (Johnny Galecki).

Clearly, the spinoff is its own thing, but there's enough of a TBBT connection to assume that you'll need to know the ins and outs of the main season in order to enjoy it.

That's not the case, though. Not only can you be a Big Bang dunce and still have a whale of a time watching — and perhaps more importantly, always understand what's going on — Stuart Fails to Save the Universe is actually designed to contradict the existing IP lore, according to creators Zak Penn and Bill Prady.

'You're not obligated to be consistent'

"One of the wonderful things about moving from universe to universe is you're not obligated to be consistent," Prady tells me.

"We're in a different universe. When we were doing this, I was always reminded of an episode of Doctor Who where the Doctor is confronted with the with the inconsistency in the episode that they're in. He points out that time is more of a vague 'timey-wimey' kind of thing, and I think we had a lot of that going on to say, 'This is a different universe, and that's how it is in this universe.'"

Even from episode 1, which drops on HBO Max on July 23, you can see how it would break your brain to try and conform to the rules and regulations of TBBT.

Stuart and the gang are frequently confronted with alternative versions of themselves and others are each aware of completely different things... and that's before we consider that there's always an overarching physical difference to each universe visited.

"We kind of approached it like we're not trying to construct this perfectly organized science fiction idea," Penn adds. "In fact, we want to both violate the ideas that we set up and then have the characters acknowledge that that's what we've done. We do that quite a bit.

"There's characters all over the season mentioning that things don't really make sense... nobody can follow it. That was a deliberate choice because. The show isn't designed to be something that's a puzzle to figure out perfectly."

As the saying goes, if you can't beat them... be bewildered by the choices being made around you. Trust me: part of the fun is trying to keep up with the multiverse madness and second-guessing what comes next — and you'll never, ever be right.

I'll level with you: I was never the biggest fan of The Big Bang Theory. I held a torch for Young Sheldon like my life depended on it and was even happy to give Georgie & Mandy's First Marriage, but something has always felt off with TBBT in my eyes.

Maybe it was the bright lights and constant laugh track, or maybe it was the fact that I always felt too dumb to understand the nerdy science at its core. But there's good news — new HBO Max spinoff Stuart Fails to Save the Universe has made me feel like a born-again sitcom fan.

Logically, a TBBT spinoff should have followed Sheldon (Jim Parsons), Leonard (Johnny Galecki) or Howard (Simon Helberg) in their days after Caltech. That was what the fans wanted, right? Some even outright lobbied for Young Leonard, which would have been worthwhile for Christine Baranski screentime alone.

What we weren't expecting was a reality where awkward comic book owner Stuart (Kevin Sussman) accidentally triggered a multiverse Armageddon after breaking a device supposedly built by Sheldon and Leonard.

Together with on-off girlfriend Denise (Lauren Lapkus), as well as friends Kripke (John Ross Bowie) and Bert (Brian Posehn), they land in a different universe in each episode. It's something that should seem like a wildly complicated framework that runs away from us, but it's actually a solid foundation for some really silly fun.

Creators Chuck Lorre, Bill Prady and Zak Penn have thrown everything and everyone's kitchen sinks into Stuart Fails to Save the Universe, and objectively, it's whip smart. Does it always fall on its feet? No. But you've got to have a huge amount of respect for something that swings so big and boldly.

Stuart Fails to Save the Universe is a breath of fresh air amongst TV that takes itself too seriously

The problem with something that's so dependent on its relatively complex premise is that you have to wade through a bit of metaphorical treacle in order for the TV show to feel effortless. Annoyingly, Stuart Fails to Save the Universe suffers from this, but I think the payoff is more than worth it.

Like a baby being taught to walk for the first time, we're handheld through explanations of Sheldon's device, how universe transportation works, how we ended up here in the first place, and what this means for what we might see across the season's remaining nine episodes (no spoilers here, don't worry).

I've never studied at Caltech and never plan to, but this is essentially a 25-minute crash course in things beyond most of our understanding. But once that's all out of the way, we relax into the laughs, stupidity and self-poking fun... and boy is the creative team coming in hot with self-awareness.

If the core storyline isn't doing it for you, there's an abundance of other intricately shrewd details to keep you occupied. Each of the episodes 10 title sequences are subtly different from each other, ensuring that we're engaged rather than committing the mortal sin of skipping through the credits.

On top of that, there's an extra layer of fun wrapped up in guessing what's going to be wrong with the next universe. Will its population have caterpillar bodies? Will they eat food with lizard tongues like that Treehouse of Horror episode of The Simpsons? The guessing never ends!

Ultimately, it's this sense of endlessness that is Stuart Fails to Save the Universe's biggest strength. The comedy could hypothetically run for 30 seasons and never lose its sense of freshness and wonder. What is continuity when you're constantly leaping through different universes?

This is an incredibly rare chance to be bold in the landscape of TV storytelling, and not only do I think HBO Max will continue to take it, but fan demand will be high — investing in something feels more worthwhile when there's (literal) infinite potential.

It's both a blessing and a curse for Big Bang Theory fans

For existing TBBT fans, however, Stuart Fails to Save the Universe signifies a different kind of importance. There's existing lore hanging over the concept of the spinoff itself, with fans theorizing that ideas like The Council of Sheldons, seen in TBBT season 11 episode 3, could return here.

The beauty of this spinoff is that you don't really need to know the first thing about TBBT to understand it, but Easter eggs are still effectively woven into its fabric. Aside from the mechanics of Sheldon and Leonard's device, the overall lore isn't too dense or meta. However, as the original synopsis suggested, TBBT cameos will appear at different points throughout the season.

Who? I will not say. But it's important to note that not everyone has returned — this isn't a reunion special. This is bound to cause some friction among the existing fanbase, but packaging Stuart Fails to Save the Universe as a flat-out TBBT 2.0 would almost have been belittling.

The threads that have been taken forward are smart choices, and we certainly get bang for our buck when it comes to screentime and plot inclusion. Plus, this is a 'never say never' situation... in infinite universes, anything can happen, and anyone can appear.

Has 'King of Sitcoms' Chuck Lorre done it again? You bet. Stuart Fails to Save the Universe is a TV triumph that I never expected, and with episodes ranging from 18-25 minutes in length, you'll be left longing for more.

Stuart Fails to Save the Universe drops on HBO Max weekly from July 23.

If I could sum up Rick and Morty season 9 in one word... I couldn't. It's physically impossible to sump up the chaos that is the Smith's family life in so few words.

All we've got to go off of this week is a name: Tom Sawyer. We can assume that this will somehow relate to the classic Mark Twain novel The Adventures of Tom Sawyer, but does this mean Morty is also Huckleberry Finn? Watch this space.

Regardless, when does Rick and Morty season 9 episode 10 arrive on Adult Swim, Hulu, and HBO Max?

What time can I watch Rick and Morty season 9 episode 10 on Adult Swim, Hulu, and HBO Max?

In the US, Rick and Morty season 9 episode 10 will debut on Adult Swim on Sunday, July 26 at 8pm PT / 11pm ET.

Viewers elsewhere, as well as in the US, have two streaming options: Hulu and HBO Max. Episodes should appear on these platforms 24 hours after they've aired on Adult Swim, meaning you can expect episode 10 to land on Monday, July 27. These are the timings you need to be aware of for the latter date:

• US – 12am PT / 3am ET
• Canada – 12am PT / 3am ET
• UK – 8am BST
• India – 12:30pm IST
• Singapore – 3pm SGT
• Australia – 6pm AEST
• New Zealand – 8pm NZDT

When do new episodes of Rick and Morty season 9 come out?

After this week's entry, they won't. Rick and Morty season 9 comprises 10 episodes so, once its finale has aired, there'll be no more chapters to enjoy until a 10th season is potentially greenlit.

Who'd have thought that the first big spinoff to come out of The Big Bang Theory (not including Young Sheldon and Georgie & Mandy's First Marriage, as they're Sheldon-adjacent) would focus on awkward comic store owner Stuart (Kevin Sussman)?

Our new heroic lead, on-off girlfriend Denise (Lauren Lapkus), as well as friends Kripke (John Ross Bowie) and Bert (Brian Posehn), are brought back together when Stuart triggers a multiverse Armageddon by accidentally breaking a device built by Sheldon (Jim Parsons) and Leonard (Johnny Galecki).

Theoretically, the new comedy show could run until the end of time. But first things first: when does Stuart Fails to Save the Universe episode 1 arrive on HBO Max?

What time can I watch Stuart Fails to Save the Universe episode 1 on HBO Max?

For US viewers, Stuart Fails to Save the Universe episode 1 will drop on Thursday, July 23 at 6pm PT/ 9pm ET.

Internationally, you're looking out for these timings:

• US – 6pm PT / 9pm ET
• Canada – 6pm PT / 9pm ET
• UK – Friday, July 24 2am BST
• India – Friday, July 24 at 6:30am IST
• Singapore – Friday, July 24 at 9am SGT
• Australia – Friday, July 24 at 11am AEDT
• New Zealand – Friday, July 24 at 12pm NZDT

When do new episodes of Stuart Fails to Save the Universe come out?

New episodes of Stuart Fails to Save the Universe will make landfall every Thursday in the US and on Fridays everywhere else. Here are the all-important dates you need to know about:

• Episode 1: July 23
• Episode 2: July 30
• Episode 3: August 6
• Episode 4: August 13
• Episode 5: August 20
• Episode 6: August 27
• Episode 7: September 3
• Episode 8: September 10
• Episode 9: September 17
• Episode 10: September 24

House of the Dragon season 3 will officially enter its back half later this week. Indeed, with four episodes down and just as many left to be released before this season's final end-credits sequence rolls, the high-fantasy show's latest multi-part installment will be over before we know it.

Regardless, plenty of melodrama, fiery action, and shock moments await us over the next few episodes. So when will House of the Dragon's next entry present itself to the world? You know the drill by now: read on to find out more!

What is the launch time for House of the Dragon season 3 episode 5?

House of the Dragon season 3 episode 5 will premiere at 6pm PT / 9pm ET on Sunday, July 19 in the US and Canada. Fans who live elsewhere will have to wait until Monday, July 20 to check it out.

As for the time that the Game of Thrones prequel's next installment will internationally, the below list will tell you:

• US — Sunday, July 12 at 6pm PT / 9pm ET
• Canada — Sunday, July 12 at 6pm PT / 9pm ET
• UK — Monday, July13 at 2am BST
• India — Monday, July 13 at 6:30am IST
• Singapore — Monday, July 13 at 9am SGT
• Australia — Monday, July 13 at 11am AEST
• New Zealand — Monday, July 13 at 1pm NZST

How do I watch House of the Dragon season 3 episode 5?

By loading up one of the best streaming services in your region of the world, of course.

For the vast majority of you, HBO Max is the platform you'll need to head to — as long as you have an active account, anyway — to catch the HBO TV Original's next entry. However, if you haven't signed up to the Warner Bros-owned streamer, or if it hasn't launched where you live, don't fret. Scroll on to see which other TV networks and streamers it'll be available on in your neck of the woods:

• US — HBO and HBO Max
• Canada — Crave
• UK — HBO Max, Sky Atlantic, and Now TV
• India — JioHotstar
• Singapore — HBO Max
• Australia — HBO Max
• New Zealand — HBO Max

When will House of the Dragon's next episode come out?

If it wasn't obvious by now, new chapters will drop every Sunday in North and South America, and every Monday on other continents.

For the third and final time in this article, read the list below to see when the remaining three episodes will be released near you:

• House of the Dragon season 3 episode 1 — out now
• House of the Dragon season 3 episode 2 — out now
• House of the Dragon season 3 episode 3 — out now
• House of the Dragon season 3 episode 4— out now
• House of the Dragon season 3 episode 5 — July 19/20
• House of the Dragon season 3 episode 6 — July 26/27
• House of the Dragon season 3 episode 7 — August 2/3
• House of the Dragon season 3 episode 8 — August 9/10

You know what Rick and Morty season 9 has been missing so far? Something marginally normal. Thankfully, Morty and Summer are off to summer camp (the season, that is — they didn't name the camp after her) in this week's episode.

Obviously, I'm being hopelessly naive in thinking that this is going to resemble anything like a routine summer-camp adventure, especially seeing as Beth and Rick are being left home alone in the meantime; I mean, what could go wrong — at either venue?

It's exhausting even trying to guess at what's coming, so I might as well stop trying, and answer the question you're here to have answered: when does Rick and Morty season 9 episode 9 arrive on Adult Swim, Hulu, and HBO Max?

What time can I watch Rick and Morty season 9 episode 9 on Adult Swim, Hulu, and HBO Max?

In the US, Rick and Morty season 9 episode 9 will debut on Adult Swim on Sunday, July 19 at 8pm PT / 11pm ET.

Viewers elsewhere, as well as in the US, have two streaming options: Hulu and HBO Max. Episodes should appear on these platforms 24 hours after they've aired on Adult Swim, meaning you can expect episode 9 to land on Monday, July 20.

These are the timings you need to take note of:

• US – 12am PT / 3am ET
• Canada – 12am PT / 3am ET
• UK – 8am BST
• India – 12:30pm IST
• Singapore – 3pm SGT
• Australia – 6pm AEST
• New Zealand – 8pm NZDT

When do new episodes of Rick and Morty season 9 come out?

Rick and Morty season 9 is set to have 10 episodes. As long as there are no unexpected delays, we can expect it to follow the following release schedule:

• Episode 1: out now
• Episode 2: out now
• Episode 3: out now
• Episode 4: out now
• Episode 5: out now
• Episode 6: out now
• Episode 7: out now
• Episode 8: out now
• Episode 9: July 19
• Episode 10: July 26

• HBO has released a mid-season trailer for House of the Dragon 3
• It teases the high fantasy show's next major battle in the Targaryen Civil War
• A game-changing betrayal could happen soon, too

The Dance of the Dragons is about to get even deadlier and more deceitful in House of the Dragon season 3.

Indeed, with its fourth episode officially marking the midpoint of the show's latest installment, HBO has released a foreboding new trailer that teases what's to come in the weeks ahead. Judging by the latest round of footage, we can expect another major battle to take place — in episode 5 or beyond — that'll reshape the entire Targaryen Civil War, too.

There's plenty to unpack from this new hype-inducing teaser — Rhaenyra's continual descent into madness and the return of Aemond Targaryen, whom we haven't seen since episode 2, being chief among the biggest reveals.

It's the HBO Max TV series' interpretation of the First Battle of Tumbleton, though, that takes center stage here. Indeed, we see Daemon Targaryen's forces converging on the market town that — at this moment in time, anyway — is still loyal to Rhaenyra and Daemon. However, with Ormund Hightower's forces occupying the strategic settlement's buildings and streets, a life-threatening fight for Tumbleton — and, by proxy, the Iron Throne itself — awaits in the Game of Thrones prequel's next chapter.

Why the First Battle of Tumbleton is such an important event in the Targaryen Civil War

It would be incredibly unfair of me to spoil everything that happens during the First Battle of Tumbleton, especially with the conflict potentially being the focus of next week's episode.

That said, there's a particularly vital incident that occurs— one that House of the Dragon has been sowing the (dragon)seeds for since its third season premiered — that's worth raising. The reason? Basically, it turns the tide of the Targaryen Civil War in favor of House Hightower, aka Team Green.

Full spoilers immediately follow for Fire and Blood, the book that House of the Dragon is based on. Turn back if you don't want this season's fifth chapter ruined before it airs on one of the world's best streaming services.

If you've read Fire and Blood, and/or know your Thrones lore, you'll know I'm referencing the moment known as the Two Betrayers.

During the First Battle of Tumbleton, Hugh Hammer and Ulf the White, both of whom are of Targaryen blood and swore their allegiance to Rhaenyra in season 2, defect to Team Green. As part of their betrayal, the pair use their dragons Vermithor and Silverwing to burn Tumbleton to the ground. Not only does Rhaenyra lose two of her dragon-riding allies, she also a key stronghold in a vital region of Westeros.

Fire and Blood doesn't contain an explanation as to why Hugh and Ulf turn their backs on Team Black and join the Hightowers' cause.

Admittedly, Rhaenyra hasn't helped her cause — after all, among other things, she refused Ulf's request to officially bear the Targaryen name when he was knighted, and she's been incredibly short-tempered and cold with Hugh since taking the throne. Nonetheless, with two less dragons on her side, things could be about to get even dicier for Rhaenyra as she struggles to retain her sanity and the wider support of the realm.

Anyway, HBO's adaptation has taken certain creative liberties with its source material and added narrative content to illustrate why characters make the choices they do. So, don't be surprised if, as long as the First Battle of Tumbleton occurs in season 3 episode 5, it includes some new material that, the above reasons notwithstanding, spells out why Hugh and Ulf symbolically stab Rhaenyra in the back.

Ready to relax this weekend in front of your TV (or smartphone, I'm not judging)? Some of you will do well to find something worth enjoying on the world's best streaming services.

Indeed, it's been a surprisingly quiet week for new movies and TV shows. And, while there's just enough to fill this week's streaming round-up, a few of you might not be enthused by how weak the selection is compared to past editions

Still, I'm holding out hope that one of the below will pique your interest. If not... well, there's always the 2026 World Cup quarter finals to watch instead! — Tom Power, senior entertainment reporter

Little House on the Prairie season 1 (Netflix)

Netflix has made it 1974 all over again! The Ingalls family return to the small screen in this adaptation of Little House on the Prairie (NB: read my Little House on the Prairie review while you're here), which is based on Laura Ingalls Wilder's book series namesake.

Essentially, this story, which sees protagonist Laura navigates her childhood days on the Prairie lands of Kansas, is comfort watching at its peak. And, while its typical "Netflix look" can be grating, if you look past the form, the content is meaningful. Season 2 is already on the way, too, and I'm already looking forward to it. — Jasmine Valentine, entertainment reporter

• Watch Little House on the Prairie season 1 on Netflix

The Westies (MGM+ and Prime Video)

Searching for a new gritty crime drama to gorge? The Westies, a J.K. Simmons-fronted MGM+ TV Original that's also available on Prime Video, should appeal to you.

Set in the early 1980s, it follows the notorious New York crime family as they navigate mob wars, familial infighting, and an FBI investigation that might unsettle the increasingly fragile truce that the Hell's Kitchen-based syndicate has with the Italian Mafia.

Episodes 1 and 2 of this Amazon TV Original are out now, while new chapters will air weekly every Sunday for the foreseeable future. — JV

• Watch The Westies on MGM+ and Prime Video

The Long Walk (HBO Max)

Francis Lawrence's excellent The Long Walk has strolled onto HBO Max and, in my view,it's one of the best Stephen King adaptations of all-time.

Set in a dystopian 1970s, a group of boys compete in an annual televised competition where they're forced to walk non-stop while maintaining a pace of 4.8 km per hour. If they don't, they're killed. There can only be one winner, too, so the pressure is on.

There are lots of likeable characters here and one very unlikeable one in the form of Mark Hamill's The Major, which is arguably his creepiest performance yet. — Lucy Buglass, senior entertainment writer

• Watch The Long Walk on HBO Max

Trying season 5 (Apple TV)

Apple TV's long running comedy series Trying has returned for its fifth season.

Esther Smith and Rafe Spall return as central couple Nikki and Jason, who we've watched journey to become parents and, now they have two foster children, they're having to navigate unexpected challenges. This season, Kat (Charlotte Riley), the biological mother of Princess and Tyler, returns and causes the family dynamics to shift.

Trying has been praised for its approach to difficult themes, providing both comedy and emotionally charged moments. It's very good to have this Apple TV Original back on our screens. — LB

• Watch Trying season 5 on Apple TV

Wardriver (Paramount+)

Did you really think that we were going to leave you action fans hanging this week? Introducing Wardriver, a new movie that's just dropped on Paramount+ and has already been described by fans online as "great acting of unsavory characters."

In it, we follow a hacker who gets caught up in a deadly game of cat and mouse when he's forced into a multi-mullion dollar cyberheist. There's a real sense of jeopardy here, as every line of code could be his last.

Hopefully, that "last" doesn't come before the end of the movie's pithy 94-minute runtime. But hey, who knows with storytelling these days? — JV

• Watch Wardriver on Paramount+

The Man Will Burn (HBO Max)

No doubt you've heard of The Burning Man, but how much do you know about its roots? You can now experience this iconic arts festival from the comfort of your living room, so you don't even need to to trek out into the desert.

Across four episodes, we go behind the scenes of the eponymous effigy's festival, from its origins all the way up to the present day. There's particular focus on organizing an event of this scale in the aftermath of the COVID-19 pandemic, too.

Both seasoned "Burners" and new arrivals feature in the documentary, giving us a complete look at the festival and how it has evolved over time. — LB

• Watch The Man Will Burn on HBO Max

Married at First Sight season 20 (Peacock)

Despite all the controversies surrounding the international versions, we're returning to where it all began with Married at First Sight. Just as Love Island USA comes to an end as well, so perfect timing.

You know the score here: 14 new singles will agree to marry someone they’ve never met, and see if their newfound relationship was actually worth saying "I do" for.

Experts Paul C. Brunson and Doctor Lisa Paz are returning to oversee the drama and, judging by the above trailer, the weddings themselves genuinely look the chicest they've ever been. — JV

• Watch Married at First Sight season 20 on Peacock

It's nearly time for another episode of House of the Dragon season 3 to take flight. And, after last week's Rhaenyra-focused entry, you can expect to see more of the show's wider ensemble when its fourth chapter drops in a few days' time.

"But, when will that be?", I hear you ask. Fear not, dear reader, because I've sent a raven to HBO Towers to learn when the Game of Thrones prequel's next installment will air. Don't delay, then — find out below when it'll premiere where you live.

What time can I watch House of the Dragon season 3 episode 4?

House of the Dragon's next episode will debut at 6pm PT / 9pm ET on Sunday, July 12 in North and South America.

There's no need for viewers in other territories to throw a Rhaenyra-style tantrum over when they can see it, either, because it'll drop everywhere else on Monday, July 13. Read on to learn the exact time that it'll arrive in your region of the world:

• US — Sunday, July 12 at 6pm PT / 9pm ET
• Canada — Sunday, July 12 at 6pm PT / 9pm ET
• UK — Monday, July13 at 2am BST
• India — Monday, July 13 at 6:30am IST
• Singapore — Monday, July 13 at 9am SGT
• Australia — Monday, July 13 at 11am AEST
• New Zealand — Monday, July 13 at 1pm NZST

What channel or platform can I watch House of the Dragon season 3 on?