The 5 Green Lanterns of Earth and their Regular Jobs before the Ring

Being chosen by a magic space ring to defend the universe is a pretty big career change.

One minute you’re flying planes, designing buildings, or drawing comics. The next, you’re fighting aliens with a glowing piece of jewelry and explaining to your boss why you can’t come in because there’s yet another Alien Invasion.

Here are five of Earth’s most famous Green Lanterns and what they were doing before the universe gave them a strange career change.

1. Hal Jordan: Military Test Pilot

Hal Jordan was already comfortable with death defying situations before becoming a Green Lantern.

As a test pilot, his job was basically: fly this experimental aircraft and try not to explode.

Then a dying alien handed him a magic ring and told him to protect the universe, Turning him into the first human space cop in Green.

His fearless attitude made him one of Earth’s greatest Lanterns, although his preferred solution to most problems remains: make an enormous green fist and hit it, But occasionally he does hit enemies with a Green coloured Aircraft.

2. John Stewart: Architect & U.S. Marine

John Stewart had two careers before becoming one of Earth’s greatest Green Lanterns: architect and U.S. Marine.

Which makes him almost perfectly qualified for the job of military space police that uses mind constructs?

He understands structures, military tactics, leadership, and how to remain calm while fellow super heroes are doing something incredibly stupid.

Looking at you Flash

His architectural background also makes his Lantern constructs some of the most precise and creative around.

Give John a Green Lantern ring and he’ll build you a fortress. But Hal’s fist is still more fun.

3. Jessica Cruz: College Student

Jessica Cruz wasn’t a pilot, soldier, artist, or Teacher. She was essentially a college student when the Green Lantern ring came looking for someone with the will to overcome fear.

And Jessica had plenty of it. She doesn’t become brave because she stops being afraid. She becomes brave because she keeps going while terrified.bWhich is arguably the most Green Lantern thing imaginable.