Garret Dillahunt reveals why stripping down in HBO's superhero series Lanterns made him nervous. Get the details on his unexpected Episode 4 scene.
Actor Garret Dillahunt (61) has revealed his initial hesitation about performing a surprise nude scene in the HBO Max original series Lanterns. Developed for DC Studios by showrunners Chris Mundy, Damon Lindelof, and comic writer Tom King, the eight-episode superhero drama launched on August 16, 2026, bringing a gritty, earthbound detective spin to the DC Universe. Dillahunt stars as wealthy rancher William Macon alongside lead heroes Hal Jordan (Kyle Chandler) and John Stewart (Aaron Pierre).
The unexpected moment unfolded during the show's fourth episode, titled "The Weenie," which aired on September 6, 2026.
Why Was Garret Dillahunt Nervous About His Lanterns Nude Scene?
In a recent interview with PEOPLE, Dillahunt admitted feeling anxious when he realized the script required him to strip completely naked on screen.
- Rare On-Screen Vulnerability: At 61, the veteran actor admitted that he assumed his naked acting days were far behind him. "I thought those days were long past," Dillahunt shared, reflecting on previous nude roles in theatre productions and independent film projects early in his career.
- Rigorous Physical Preparation: Because his character William Macon is written as exceptionally fit for a rancher his age, Dillahunt spent weeks training in gym sessions to prepare physically for the reveal once he received the script.
- Supportive On-Set Atmosphere: Dillahunt praised director and crew members for cultivating a lighthearted, supportive environment on set, which helped alleviate his initial anxiety.
How Does William Macon's Nude Scene Fit Into the Lanterns Storyline?
The scene occurs at the Macon ranch when Green Lanterns Hal Jordan and John Stewart arrive to investigate suspicious activity in rural Nebraska.
- Artistic Sketching Sequence: During their visit, William sheds his clothes while posing for John Stewart, who utilizes his background as an architect and artist to draw him. William later admires the finished sketch after the intergalactic law enforcement officers leave the property.
- Co-Star Reactions: Poorna Jagannathan, who plays William's wife Zoe Macon, joked that the cast broke into laughter over Dillahunt's anxiety, noting how comfortable the set turned out to be.
- Narrative Relevance: Dillahunt emphasized that he agreed to the scene because it authentically fit the narrative context of the episode rather than relying on cheap shock value.