DC Comics Will Release Green Lantern #40 in October

The upcoming issue kicks off the new First Light storyline with the return of Hal Jordan to Earth.

Updated on Oct. 5, 2026 in Comic Books

Graphic poster illustration featuring a glowing emerald lantern emitting a beam of light into deep space, evoking a cosmic hero narrative.
DC Comics will release the fortieth issue of its Green Lantern series on October 28, 2026, marking the beginning of the First Light storyline. AI Illustration. Upload story photo >

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DC Comics announced that Green Lantern #40 will arrive on October 28, 2026. This issue launches the First Light story arc featuring the return of Hal Jordan to Earth to confront Krona.

Why it matters

The return of Hal Jordan to his home sector is expected to reinvigorate the long-running Green Lantern comic series. The story introduces a hidden truth held by the Guardians that could alter the entire DC Universe.

The upcoming release is the 40th issue in the current Green Lantern series. Hal Jordan serves as the primary Green Lantern for sector 2814.

The players

DC Comics

This American comic book publisher is one of the largest and oldest companies in the industry and produces material featuring iconic characters like Superman and Batman.

Jeremy Adams

He is a professional comic book writer known for his work on various titles within the DC Universe.

Scott Godlewski

He is a comic book artist recognized for his visual contributions to major superhero publications.

Hal Jordan

He is a central character in the DC Universe known as one of the most prominent members of the Green Lantern Corps.

Kyle Rayner

He is a character who serves as a member of the Green Lantern Corps and a key ally to other heroes in the organization.

The details

Written by Jeremy Adams and illustrated by Scott Godlewski, the plot follows Kyle Rayner and the Green Lantern Corps as they attempt to rescue Hal Jordan. The narrative centers on a direct conflict between Jordan and the antagonist Krona.

Timeline

  1. Green Lantern #40 will be available for purchase on October 28, 2026.

Roadmap

This release follows the established pattern of major character returns used to refresh long-running narratives within the Green Lantern Corps publication history. It reflects the broader industry trend of using milestone issues to reenergize comic book franchises.

Fans and collectors can expect the new issue to appear at local comic shops and online retailers starting on October 28. Readers should check with their local stores to confirm availability and pre-order options for the First Light debut.

The takeaway

The upcoming release signals a major shift for the Green Lantern series as it pivots to a new story arc. Collectors should keep an eye on this issue as it introduces plot developments intended to have long-lasting effects on the wider DC Universe.

Further reading

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Do you believe returning to legacy characters and storylines reenergizes popular entertainment franchises?