James Gunn’s decision to recast a key character in Peacemaker at the last minute has proven to be a fortunate move, delivering an unexpectedly strong addition to the show’s cast. While John Cena’s portrayal of Christopher Smith remains a fan favorite, it was Freddie Stroma’s late casting as Vigilante that truly became a standout, shaping the series‘ dynamic in a powerful way.
The Unexpected Change Behind Peacemaker’s Vigilante Role
Peacemaker’s upcoming second season will reunite many beloved characters, with John Cena returning as the titular hero. However, the standout surprise has been the character Adrian Chase, also known as Vigilante, played by Freddie Stroma. Initially, the role was filled by actor Chris Conrad, who had already filmed five and a half episodes before creative differences prompted a split. This led James Gunn to make a swift and critical change by recasting the part mid-production.
Gunn revealed that the recasting process caused him significant anxiety, as the character of Vigilante was a fan favorite and vital to the story. The production team had already filmed multiple episodes and part of the eighth episode with the original actor, and switching performers meant reshooting key scenes. Furthermore, the new actor needed to fit the suit made for the previous actor, limiting Gunn’s options to someone with a matching physique and height.
“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 Writer
This last-minute switch was crucial for the overall success of the show, allowing Gunn and the creative team to fully realize the potential of Vigilante as a key figure in the story and fan engagement.
Freddie Stroma’s Nervous Introduction and Ultimate Triumph
Freddie Stroma stepped into big shoes when replacing Chris Conrad, joining a cast that had already developed strong on-set relationships. Despite feeling apprehensive about entering midway through the shoot, Stroma quickly felt welcomed, especially by John Cena, who was supportive and encouraging.
“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
Stroma’s performance as Adrian Chase/Vigilante was well received by audiences and critics alike. From his initial diner scene in the premiere onward, he embodied the complex, morally ambiguous sidekick to Peacemaker, contributing emotional depth and unpredictability. This role allowed Gunn’s vision of a chaotic but lovable anti-hero to come through more vividly than anticipated.
How Vigilante Adds a Unique Flavor Compared to Gunn’s Superman Project
James Gunn’s directorial debut with Superman in 2025 showcased a more mainstream superhero, yet it lacked some of the vibrant, chaotic energy present in Peacemaker. While both projects explore themes of heroism and teamwork, Peacemaker’s inclusion of a character like Vigilante brought a fresh sense of unpredictability and levity that was less apparent in the Superman film.
The Justice Gang and the 11th Street Kids in Peacemaker bear some resemblance to groups in Superman’s universe, including figures akin to Mr. Terrific, Murn, and Guy Gardner. However, none of those ensembles featured a wild card like Vigilante, whose unpredictable nature and morally grey decisions added a compelling dynamic. Vigilante’s “lovable oddball” persona has especially resonated with fans, filling a gap in Gunn’s superhero storytelling by embracing imperfection and chaos within the hero team.
The Broader Impact of James Gunn’s Recasting Choice on Peacemaker
The recasting of Vigilante highlights the challenges and potential rewards of creative decisions made under pressure. Gunn’s willingness to re-evaluate and recast a key role midway through production reflects his commitment to the quality and integrity of Peacemaker. This choice not only enhanced the series’ storytelling but also deepened audience investment in characters beyond the central figure played by John Cena.
With Peacemaker’s second season imminent, the strengthened cast lineup, including Stroma’s now established role, promises to continue engaging viewers, blending humor, action, and complex character interplay. As the series develops, it will be interesting to see how Vigilante’s unpredictable nature influences the dynamics of Project Butterfly and the DC Universe at large.
Peacemaker is currently available for streaming on HBO Max, where audiences can revisit the first season’s compelling mix of characters and anticipate what the new season will bring.
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. However, he also describes himself as “somewhat anti-religion.”
Q. Is James Gunn no longer with Marvel?
A. After being removed from the Guardians of the Galaxy series in 2018, the director believed his career was finished. However, in 2022, he and Peter Safran were chosen to lead DC Studios. This opportunity allowed him to work on another superhero project.
Q. What is James Gunn’s religion?
A. In Gunn’s 2025 version of Superman, the revamped, computer-animated Krypto the Superdog was inspired by Ozu. Gunn, who grew up in a Catholic household, has shared that prayer still matters to him. However, he has also expressed that he is, in some respects, against organized religion.
Q. Is James Gunn still with Marvel?
A. James Gunn was let go from Marvel because some of his old tweets, which were offensive, came back into the spotlight.
