9. Alan Scott (New 52 version)
Alan Scott was the first Green Lantern but his powers were/are far different from the modern day Corps. Even though he survived the "Crisis on Infinite Earths" and was absorbed into DC's new universe, he remained the same (his ring's power is more magical/mystic based and of course retained the same god awful costume.) Over a year ago, DC re-booted its universe as the "New 52" and with it came an all new interpretation of The Green Lantern, one more in touch with the 21st century and its changing sensibilities. James Robinson's "Earth 2" comic introduced Alan as a younger gay man rather than the straight father of two. This was met with some rather harsh critical response from long time readers and whether this was the result of homophobia or simply the closed minds of fans who don't like change, one can't be for certain but what is important is that Robinson didn't write Scott as a gay superhero but rather a superhero who happened to be gay. Tying the death of his lover to his origin as a Lantern was both unique and beautiful. Everyone needs someone to inspire them at some point in their lives and having a major character as the original Green Lantern speak to a largely ignored and ridiculed segment of the population is a good thing.