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Janus Cosmetics: Black Mask's DCU Debut Hinted?
31 Aug
Summary
- Janus Cosmetics, owned by Charles Sionis, may hint at Black Mask's DCU existence.
- The name Janus connects to Roman mythology, symbolizing beginnings and duality.
- The show explores themes of transition, duality, and beginnings, mirroring Janus.
- Janus has appeared in other DC works, including Doom Patrol and Justice League.
- Alton Janus was a minion of Maxwell Lord in Justice League: Generation Lost.

The latest episode of "Lanterns" included a notable easter egg: Janus Cosmetics. This company, previously owned by Charles Sionis and later by his son Roman, is historically linked to the Batman villain Black Mask. The appearance of Janus Cosmetics on a mall store sign has fueled speculation about Black Mask's potential introduction into the DC Universe. The brand was also referenced as "Janus Corp." in Zack Snyder's "Justice League."
Beyond its connection to Black Mask, the name Janus carries significant mythological weight. In Roman lore, Janus is the god of beginnings, endings, time, and duality. This symbolism aligns closely with the overarching themes of "Lanterns," which explores transitions of power, dualities between characters, and the interplay of past and future timelines. The show's episodic structure, featuring flashbacks and multiple timelines, further emphasizes this thematic connection.
This is not the first instance of the name Janus appearing in DC lore. Previous appearances include Doctor Janus in "Doom Patrol," a planet named Janus in "Legion of Super-Heroes Annual," and the "Janus Directive" crossover event. Additionally, Alton Janus, a minion of Maxwell Lord, was part of the organization Checkmate in "Justice League: Generation Lost." The Checkmate organization was later established as canon in "Peacemaker."