Lanterns Season 1 Episode 3, titled 'OutKast,' presents a nonlinear narrative that jumps from the 2026 timeline established in the pilot to a flashback set in the 1980s and 1990s. The episode details John Stewart's childhood, his relationship with his parents John Sr. and Bernadette, his military service, and his recruitment into the Green Lantern Corps. The series diverges from the source comics by creating an original origin story for Stewart, while retaining elements such as his mother's influence and oversight by the Guardians. The episode features performances by J. Alphonse Nicholson and Nicole Ari Parker, who portray Stewart's parents, and Aaron Pierre, who plays adult Stewart. Reviewers noted that the episode provides a detailed portrayal of Stewart's background. The episode also includes Easter eggs referencing Gray Wolf, a Batman Incorporated character, a Janus Cosmetics poster linking to the upcoming Clayface film, and a Kilowog sketch in Stewart's childhood room. It introduces Laura Linney as a human form of a Guardian of Oa. The storyline concludes with Stewart preparing for his role as a Green Lantern, leaving future developments unresolved.