James Gunn overcame considerable challenges recasting a key character in Peacemaker, resulting in Freddie Stroma’s standout performance as Vigilante, which many agree surpassed even John Cena’s iconic portrayal. This last-minute casting switch took place during the filming of the show’s first season and has generated considerable anticipation ahead of Peacemaker’s second season debut.
Although John Cena’s role as Christopher Smith, aka Peacemaker, remains widely praised and central to the series, Freddie Stroma’s arrival as Adrian Chase, the Vigilante, introduced an unexpected and captivating energy. Vigilante is Peacemaker’s self-styled sidekick who unofficially joins Project Butterfly, adding complexity and unpredictability to the storyline. Gunn’s decision to replace the original actor after several episodes had been filmed led to reshoots and posed significant production challenges, but the results were well-received by both critics and fans.
Unexpected Recasting Decision Behind Freddie Stroma’s Role
The initial actor cast for Vigilante, Chris Conrad, had already completed filming for five and a half episodes before creative differences prompted a separation from the project. James Gunn explained that he and Conrad had differing perspectives on the character’s direction and that Conrad was not inclined to continue with the role long-term. This development forced the production team to recast the role swiftly and address all scenes requiring reshoots.
One critical constraint was the physical suit made for Vigilante, which necessitated casting an actor of similar height and build to avoid redesigning the costume under tight deadlines. Freddie Stroma stepped in to replace Conrad, taking on the challenge of integrating into a well-established cast and re-filming multiple scenes. Despite the pressure, Stroma’s performance earned praise, making Vigilante one of the series’ best-loved characters.
“We had shot all of episodes one through five, and we had also shot part of eight. And then we were like, for various reasons, we needed to recast the actor. I was having… anxiety at night because I was like, ‘I love this show more than anything I’ve ever done before,’ and one particular part of it wasn’t working as well as it could. And it happened to be everybody’s favorite character in the script. And so we went out, and we had to find a Vigilante.” —James Gunn, Director and Showrunner
Freddie Stroma’s Initial Concerns and On-Set Integration
Joining an ongoing production midway through filming can be intimidating, and Freddie Stroma admitted feeling apprehensive about stepping into an established cast and crew. However, he found immediate support from John Cena and James Gunn, which eased his transition onto the set.
Stroma’s ability to adapt quickly and bring depth to Vigilante was evident from his very first scene, setting the tone for his character’s role in the show’s narrative and dynamics. His chemistry with the cast contributed to making Project Butterfly’s storyline more engaging and complex, especially as Peacemaker’s character faced challenges throughout the season.
“It was a little scary at first because, you know, everyone’s been shooting for a few months together and everything’s underway. But as soon as I got there, John [Cena] was just so friendly and nice and good. He’s very good at improv, and James [Gunn] is great, and it felt like a really easy fit from the first scene. From then on, any nerves just kind of melted away.” —Freddie Stroma, Actor
Vigilante Brings Unique Energy Missing from James Gunn’s Superman
James Gunn’s approach to Peacemaker contrasts with his 2025 Superman film, which took on a more traditional ensemble superhero format. While Superman features well-known heroes and teams like the Justice Gang and the Daily Planet personnel, it lacks the offbeat and chaotic vitality present in Peacemaker, largely thanks to characters like Vigilante.
Vigilante serves as a lively, morally ambiguous wild card who balances out the other characters with his unpredictable yet charming persona. This role embodies the type of quirky, unconventional character Gunn often champions in his work. Although Superman attempts an ensemble feel, it misses the distinctive eccentricity and spontaneity that Vigilante brings to Peacemaker.
Observers have noted parallels between the Justice Gang and Peacemaker’s 11th Street Kids, with characters such as Mr. Terrific, Guy Gardner, and Hawkgirl corresponding to members of the latter group. Yet, none of those characters completely captured the idiosyncratic flair and chaotic presence Vigilante provides, making Freddie Stroma’s casting a key strength for the series’ tone and storytelling.
Vigilante’s Role in Enhancing Peacemaker’s Story and Future Outlook
Since his on-screen debut at the diner in Peacemaker’s season one premiere, Vigilante has become integral to Project Butterfly’s mission, often challenging Peacemaker and driving the plot in unexpected directions. Stroma’s portrayal has resonated strongly with viewers, enriching the show with a blend of humor, intensity, and unpredictability.
With Peacemaker’s second season on the horizon, fans eagerly anticipate more adventures featuring this dynamic duo. The successful recasting and resulting chemistry between John Cena and Freddie Stroma suggest that the series will continue to thrive by balancing star power with memorable supporting roles.
Peacemaker is available for streaming on HBO Max, where audiences can witness the intriguing interplay between John Cena’s Peacemaker and Freddie Stroma’s Vigilante.
Our Reader’s Queries
Q. What is John Cena diagnosed with?
A. Famous wrestler John Cena has been told he has skin cancer. Doctors discovered melanoma on the left of his chest and his back, with about a year between findings. Cena shared with USA Today that this diagnosis has altered how he views life. He encourages men to focus more on taking care of their skin.
Q. Has John Cena ever had surgery?
A. John Cena recently shared why he decided to get a hair transplant to cover his bald spot. In a recent interview, the WWE star criticized wrestling critics, saying they “bullied” him into making this decision.
Q. What illness does John Cena have?
A. John Cena, a well-known wrestler from World Wrestling Entertainment (WWE), shared that he has been diagnosed with skin cancer on two occasions.
