John Cena, currently on his WWE retirement tour, continues to expand his role beyond the wrestling ring by making a significant impact as an actor within the DC Universe. Known widely as the Franchise Player, Cena has collaborated multiple times with filmmaker James Gunn, notably starring in the HBO Max series Peacemaker. Despite public perception of Cena as primarily a wrestler turned actor, Gunn firmly challenges this view and emphasizes Cena’s legitimacy as a performer.
James Gunn’s Perspective on Cena’s Career and Talents
In a discussion with GQ, James Gunn reflected on his experience working with John Cena and expressed admiration for the actor’s transformation. Gunn recognized Cena’s background in wrestling but insisted that calling him a mere wrestler-turned-actor sold him short. The filmmaker praised Cena’s professionalism and the emotional range he has yet to fully reveal on screen.
Addressing those who reduce Cena’s career to wrestling roots, Gunn said,
“And then for people to even talk about John Cena as a wrestler turned actor—you go, ‘F**k that. That’s not what he is. He’s an actor. He’s an actor.’ I mean every actor did something before they were acting. [Wrestling] that just happens to be the job he had before this. Because he is fantastic.”
— James Gunn, Filmmaker
Ongoing Success and Future Directions for the Peacemaker Series
The second season of Peacemaker has been well received by fans, further establishing John Cena’s versatility as an actor within the superhero genre. As the season nears its conclusion, questions have arisen about the series’ future. During an interview with Deadline, Gunn teased that while some characters will continue to appear in forthcoming DC projects, the continuation may not take the form of a direct third season of Peacemaker, but rather evolve into new creative directions.
John Cena’s Engagement with the Peacemaker Fanbase
John Cena remains actively involved in promoting the series and connecting with fans. On October 2, 2025, Cena shared anticipation for the season finale on social media, encouraging viewers to tune in by saying,
“What will happen with only ✌️episodes of the season left??Find out TONIGHT!An all-new episode of #Peacemaker airs at 9pm ET on @streamonmax!”
— John Cena, Actor and Producer
Significance of Cena’s Continued Growth as an Actor
James Gunn’s defense of John Cena’s actor transformation underscores a broader recognition of wrestling stars crossing over into mainstream acting roles with credibility. Cena’s achievements in Peacemaker demonstrate his capacity to handle complex characters, pushing beyond his known wrestling persona. This evolution not only enhances his artistic range but also strengthens his standing within the DC Universe and the entertainment industry at large, signaling more diverse opportunities ahead.
What will happen with only ✌️episodes of the season left??
Find out TONIGHT!
An all-new episode of #Peacemaker airs at 9pm ET on @streamonmax! pic.twitter.com/7WU2pj2KyS— John Cena (@JohnCena) October 2, 2025
