James Gunn Reveals Peacemaker Season 2 Theme Song and Surprises Fans with Live Foxy Shazam Performance

At San Diego Comic-Con on Saturday, DC Studios co-CEO James Gunn revealed that Peacemaker Season 2 will debut a new opening theme song, replacing the popular tune from the first season. The fresh anthem, titled Oh Lord by the band Foxy Shazam, was introduced during an HBO Max event called Peacefest. To add to the excitement, Gunn surprised attendees by bringing Foxy Shazam to perform the track live, energizing the crowd ahead of the season premiere on August 21st.

The previous season featured the catchy opening theme Do Ya Wanna Taste It by Wig Wam, which quickly became a fan favorite due to its dynamic rock sound and memorable choreography. The challenge now lies in matching or exceeding that enthusiastic reception with the new song for the upcoming season.

James Gunn Praises Foxy Shazam Ahead of Live Performance

During the Peacefest event, James Gunn personally introduced Foxy Shazam with high praise, acknowledging their influence and fit for the show’s energetic style. He stated,

“I am here to reveal right now — it is a song from my favorite band in the world that is objectively the greatest rock ‘n’ roll band in the world, Foxy Shazam, here they are. They’re gonna perform it for you guys — ‘Oh Lord’ — come on guys!” —James Gunn, DC Studios co-CEO

Foxy Shazam, known for its mix of pop rock, alternative rock, and glam rock elements, originated in Cincinnati, Ohio in 2004. Their music aligns well with the hair metal aesthetic established in Peacemaker’s first season, bringing a nostalgic yet vibrant energy that complements the series’ tone.

James Gunn
Image of: James Gunn

Foxy Shazam’s History and Connection to Peacemaker

Foxy Shazam built an impressive career with five studio albums released between 2004 and 2014 before going on an indefinite hiatus. During this break, members explored various side projects until the band reunited in 2020. Since reuniting, Foxy Shazam has released four additional studio albums, rejuvenating their presence in the rock scene.

The track Oh Lord comes from their 2010 self-titled album, predating the hiatus, and was already popular among fans. James Gunn has a strong appreciation for the band’s music, having previously licensed their song Welcome to the Church of Rock and Roll for the trailer of Peacemaker Season 1.

Upcoming Season Focuses on Character Development within the DC Universe

Peacemaker Season 2 faces the complex task of integrating its storyline into James Gunn’s expanding DC Universe while maintaining the momentum from the first season. The new installments will introduce well-known characters such as Guy Gardner played by Nathan Fillion, Hawkgirl portrayed by Isabela Merced, and Maxwell Lord depicted by Sean Gunn.

Despite the expansions and guest appearances, Gunn emphasized that the core narrative will focus heavily on the evolution of the main characters. Speaking at San Diego Comic-Con, he remarked,

“I really like TV shows where the characters don’t just return every season and they’re the same exact characters. I want to see growth,” —James Gunn, Director and DC Studios co-CEO

“I want to see change and sometimes regression. And Peacemaker is a different guy this year. He’s dealing with the demons he uncovered from the first season and trying to deal with them, and the world is not accepting him the way he is. They aren’t accepting him as a hero.” —James Gunn, Director and DC Studios co-CEO

This emphasis on character development promises a more intense and nuanced storyline, as Peacemaker confronts personal challenges and external skepticism regarding his heroic identity.

Peacemaker Season 2 Premiere and Music Availability

The first season of Peacemaker continues streaming on HBO Max, setting the stage for a highly anticipated second season debuting on Thursday, August 21st. Fans eager for the new soundtrack can now find Foxy Shazam’s music, including Oh Lord, across major streaming platforms, adding to the excitement surrounding the series’ return.

Our Reader’s Queries

Q. Does James Gunn believe in God?

A. Gunn grew up in a Catholic household and has shared that prayer is still significant to him, but he also considers himself “somewhat anti-religion.”

Q. What is James Gunn’s religion?

A. The new CGI version of Krypto the Superdog in Gunn’s 2025 Superman film was inspired by Ozu. Gunn, who grew up in a Catholic household, continues to find value in prayer. However, he has also described himself as “in some ways, anti-religion.”