Exciting news hit the entertainment world this week: Kyle Chandler, beloved for his role as Coach Taylor in *Friday Night Lights*, is set to return to television on HBO. He’ll portray Hal Jordan, famously known as one of the Green Lanterns, in an upcoming DC superhero series. Chandler's character will mentor a younger Lantern, John Stewart. Created by the talented team of Chris Mundy (*Ozark*), Damon Lindelof (*Watchmen*), and comic book writer Tom King, this series promises to have a grounded story with a gritty vibe akin to *True Detective*.

Indeed, HBO is revamping its strategy, tapping into its catalog of acclaimed shows by injecting superhero elements to appeal both to franchise fans and a broader audience. Following suits like the *Penguin*, from the expansion of the Batman universe, HBO seems to be merging beloved narratives with heroic feats.

But what if we could widen the lens and imagine HBO’s new superhero series through a different perspective? Here are some conceptual pitches that could revolutionize audiences' viewing experiences.

The Leftovers Reinvented

Imagine a world where uncontrollable battles between superhumans dramatically alter ordinary lives. Following the dramatic events of superhero conflicts, we can explore how cults emerge in the aftermath, similar to what was showcased in *The Leftovers*. We could see how characters navigate their shattered lives while grappling with the chaos left in the wake of massive battles like those seen in the *Justice League*.

Taking Enlightened to New Heights

In a reimagining of *Enlightened*, what if Amy, the lead character, discovered superpowers after her transformative experience? Tackling relatable personal struggles, she could now confront not only emotional but also physical challenges, turning her journey of self-discovery into one of heroic feats. This twist brings a unique blend of comedy and empowerment, all while touching on essential issues of privilege and responsibility.

Girls in a Supercharged Universe

Picture a reboot of *Girls*, set against the backdrop of a superhero-riddled Gotham or Metropolis. The protagonists, pursuing careers in media and arts, remain blissfully unaware of the extraordinary chaos around them. Hannah could humorously recount her woes, juggling the frustrations of adult life while inadvertently encountering superheroes and villains in daily scenarios. This comedic twist would provide a refreshing take on female narratives amidst the superhero craze.

Somebody Somewhere Meets the Extraordinary

Combining the relatable journey of *Somebody Somewhere* with elements of the superhero genre could yield compelling results. As the protagonist navigates personal loss and reconnects with her community, a subplot could parallel a teenage boy in nearby Smallville grappling with newfound powers, emphasizing themes of connection and empathy in extraordinary circumstances.

Doll & Em with a Superhero Spin

What if the unique friendship depicted in *Doll & Em* were escalated with a superhero twist? The characters could explore the dynamics of fame and identity while navigating a world where one possesses superpowers, complicating their relationship. This portrayal could comment on the nature of ambition and the entertainment industry, all while maintaining its biting wit.

Deadwood Reimagined in a Superhero Context

Revisiting the historical context of *Deadwood*, we could construct a narrative around the founding of a new city in a superhero universe. Characters could grapple with the complexities of establishing a society amidst chaos, including battling villains while establishing governance. This setting could become an allegory for the struggle that comes with power—both superhuman and societal.

As HBO continues to innovate, combining the allure of superhero narratives with unique storylines about everyday challenges will undoubtedly resonate with diverse audiences. Superpowers aside, the essence of storytelling remains rooted in our shared experiences—be it love, loss, or the pursuit of purpose in an ever-evolving world.