John Cena Explains the Story Behind His Surprise ‘Superman’ Cameo
James Gunn’s Superman hit theaters a few weeks ago, and it’s already a massive success, both with critics and at the box office. The movie is the first big step for Gunn’s new DC Universe, and it’s packed with characters like Mr. Terrific, Hawkgirl, Metamorpho, Guy Gardner, and Lex Luthor. But one surprise moment that got fans talking was the return of John Cena’s Peacemaker.
Peacemaker only shows up for one scene, but it’s a memorable one. He appears as a talk show guest, cracking jokes and throwing shade at Superman. In a recent interview, Cena finally opened up about how the cameo happened and why he didn’t hesitate to do it.
“I got to go on a talk show and talk smack about Superman. I was called in at the final hour as we were getting ready for Peacemaker Season 2… James asked if I wanted in and I said, ‘heck yes.’”
“The cameo came about because he asked me, and he could ask me to go to the ends of the Earth and if I could do it, then I’ll do it,” Cena said, talking about his friendship with Gunn. “He’s one of the people on a short list, which I admire and respect and really do as much as I can for them. He’s changed my life completely, as I stand here in [the Peacemaker costume].”
did you catch my superman cameo? best part of the movie. pic.twitter.com/1pDCyKvaX4
— Peacemaker on HBO Max (@DCpeacemaker) August 3, 2025
Cena’s loyalty to Gunn is well known, but he’s also thrilled to see how much people are embracing the new DCU. For him, Superman is proof that fans are ready for Gunn’s vision. “I think to have audiences around the world embrace James’ vision of Superman, which is James’ vision for the DCU, is exciting for all of us,” Cena explained. “It shows that people are interested and they know that Superman is more than just a standalone movie. It’s an installment in something larger and I think everyone is eager to see the next chapter.”
That next chapter includes Peacemaker season two, which is already in the works. The new season won’t just bring back the same wild, over-the-top energy as the first, it will also play a much bigger role in the DCU’s ongoing story. Some characters from Superman, like Isabela Merced’s Hawkgirl and Nathan Fillion’s Guy Gardner, will even show up alongside the usual Peacemaker crew.
The official description for season two teases that Peacemaker will find himself in an alternate world where life seems perfect. But, of course, it won’t be that simple. The story will push him to face his past and think about his future, mixing emotional moments with the same chaos and comedy fans expect.
The returning cast includes Danielle Brooks, Freddie Stroma, Jennifer Holland, and Steve Agee. They’ll be joined by Frank Grillo as Rick Flag Sr. and Michael Rooker as Red St. Wild, linking the show even more closely to other DCU projects like Creature Commandos and Superman.
Gunn is writing all eight episodes himself and will direct the premiere, making sure the tone stays consistent with his larger DCU plans. If Superman is any indication, fans can expect season two of Peacemaker to be bigger, crazier, and even more connected to the rest of the DC Universe.
As Cena put it, the excitement around Superman is spreading fast, and Peacemaker is ready to ride that wave.
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