John Cena stepped into the role of Peacemaker after a major WWE star, Batista, had to pass on the opportunity due to scheduling conflicts. This shift happened during Cena’s ongoing WWE retirement tour, as he winds down his wrestling career with only a few appearances and matches left.
Batista Reveals He Was Originally Intended for the Peacemaker Role
In a recent interview with Comic Book, Batista disclosed that the Peacemaker character was initially created with him in mind. He explained that James Gunn wrote the part specifically for him, but he had to give it up because of his commitments to the film Army of the Dead. The scheduling clash proved impossible to resolve, resulting in John Cena taking on the role.
“I have to say, that one. I really wanted to do that part. He (Gunn) wrote that part for me, and it was meant for me, and it just became a scheduling thing where I just couldn’t do it, because I was doing Army of the Dead. And so it was a scheduling issue that we just could not figure out.”
— Batista, former WWE Star
Despite the disappointment, Batista reflected that John Cena was actually a better fit for the character, acknowledging Cena’s unique suitability for Peacemaker’s role.
Batista Expresses Respect and Admiration for John Cena’s Portrayal
Batista admitted that while he was envious of Cena landing the role, he believed Cena’s portrayal brought something he himself could not achieve. He praised Cena’s performance as perfect for the character and acknowledged that the success of the show reflected Cena’s capabilities rather than what Batista could have delivered.
“And I think it was great. It was a blessing in disguise that I didn’t do that, because I have to say, I have to be honest, there’s no way that I would have been able to do that role like John. He’s just perfect for it, you know, and I wouldn’t have done it justice, and it wouldn’t have been as successful.”
— Batista, former WWE Star
Batista’s relationship with director James Gunn goes back to their collaboration on Guardians of the Galaxy, which likely influenced the initial casting choice for Peacemaker.
Recognition of John Cena’s Unique Contribution to Peacemaker
Further emphasizing his sentiment, Batista spoke about the distinctive qualities Cena brought to the character that made the series work so effectively. He admitted his admiration for Cena’s ability to infuse the role with depth and charisma, which he felt was unmatched by any other option.
“So, look, and I am, I’m saying that with a bit of envy, you know, I would love it. I just wouldn’t have been able to do the same thing that John does to bring to that character. It wouldn’t have been the same. It wouldn’t have been as good. I can honestly say it wouldn’t have been as good.”
— Batista, former WWE Star
Currently, Peacemaker is in its second season, garnering attention for its engaging character development and strong performances. John Cena’s portrayal continues to attract new fans and solidify the show’s place in the superhero television landscape.
The decision for John Cena to assume the Peacemaker role highlights the dynamic nature of casting in the entertainment industry, particularly when unforeseen scheduling conflicts arise. It also underscores Cena’s versatility as an entertainer transitioning from wrestling to acting.
As Cena approaches the conclusion of his WWE career during his retirement tour, his success in acting roles like Peacemaker presents new avenues for his professional path beyond wrestling. Batista’s public endorsement of Cena’s performance adds credibility and context to the transition behind the scenes, showing respect among former wrestling colleagues who have also found success in Hollywood.
