Lanterns Episode 5 Ends with Zoe's Death and John Rejecting the Green Lantern Ring

Episode five of Lanterns wraps up a central plot by having John Stewart set a trap for Manhunter Zoe, using Hal Jordan as bait. John shoots Zoe and extracts her heart, presenting it to the Guardians as proof of her demise. He then seizes Hal's lantern ring, puts it on, but feels no pride or power and promptly removes it, rejecting the Guardians' offer.

Zoe's death is affirmed, and William Macon also perishes after sacrificing himself as a decoy. The episode explains why John Stewart is not the Green Lantern seen in the 2020s-era Peacemaker and Superman, leaving that role to Guy Gardiner. Actor Poorna Jagannathan reflected on Zoe's complex humanity before her death.