John Cena’s character, Chris Smith, also known as Peacemaker, continues to harbor resentment toward prominent DC superheroes such as Batman and Superman, according to James Gunn. Despite some shifts within the DC Universe and character developments in Peacemaker Season 2, this grudge remains a defining aspect of Peacemaker’s persona, especially regarding the heroes’ popularity.
During a recent episode of Peacemaker: The Official Podcast with James Gunn, the director discussed how Peacemaker struggles with acceptance among his superhero peers. Gunn explained,
He hopes-he wants to be a superhero, but we find out they don’t really consider him one,
and continued,
They consider him a loser. So yeah, although I think he’s got more pressing issues at this point, he’s a little salty. He’s not a big fan of the guys that get all the attention.
Continuing the Conflict From Season 1 to Season 2
The first season of Peacemaker highlighted this tension with an intense clash between Cena’s character and the Justice League. Although Season 2 introduces the Justice Gang instead, the animosity toward characters like Superman has persisted without easing. Peacemaker’s disdain extends beyond simple rivalry, rooted in his feelings of being overshadowed by the more celebrated heroes.
James Gunn shared a specific moment from the new season to demonstrate Peacemaker’s ongoing grudge. In a scene from the Superman movie within the series, Peacemaker is interviewed by Cleavis Thornwaite, where he expresses jealousy and criticism openly. Gunn detailed,
In the Superman movie, you can actually hear him. He’s being interviewed by Cleavis Thornwaite, and Cleavis asks him, you know, about Superman, and he goes on about how Superman’s jealous of him because he’s edgier and more muscular than he is.
What to Expect as Peacemaker Season 2 Progresses
So far, only three episodes of Peacemaker Season 2 have been released out of eight. With five episodes remaining and appearances from additional characters tied to the Superman film anticipated, viewers can expect further exploration of Peacemaker’s uneasy relationships with other DC heroes. This ongoing tension offers insight into Smith’s complex identity within the broader universe, emphasizing his struggle for recognition and acceptance.
