James Gunn recently revealed important details about a surprising death in Peacemaker Season 2, Episode 7, focusing on the dramatic moment involving Vigilante and an alternate version of Auggie Smith. The insight was shared during a podcast where Gunn discussed why Vigilante killed this alternate-universe Auggie and how it impacted Chris Smith’s story. This event adds a complex layer to the ongoing tension in the series, with James Gunn Peacemaker death being a pivotal plot point.
The Violent Climax: Vigilante’s Stabbing of Auggie Smith
On the official Peacemaker podcast, James Gunn described how the stabbing was carefully crafted to deliver a sudden and brutal shock. In this episode, Adrian Chase, known as Vigilante, kills the alternate-universe Auggie Smith—Blue Dragon—who was protecting Chris Smith and trying to send him home safely. Gunn highlighted the editing emphasis on Chris’ long, lingering view of Vigilante through a window before the fatal moment, making the stabbing abrupt and devastating.
Unlike the original White Dragon from Season 1, portrayed by Auggie Smith, Robert Patrick’s Blue Dragon was a kinder and more caring father figure. Gunn pointed out this alternate Auggie still showed love toward his son, Chris, despite understanding that Chris was flawed. Auggie’s philosophy, rooted in controlling only what is directly in front of him, is summed up in his belief:
“I fight the madmen, murderers, and monsters in front of me because that’s all I can control.”
—Auggie Smith
Impact of the Death on Characters and Audience Reactions
The podcast clarified that the killing of Auggie was meant to underline the ambiguity and moral complexity within Peacemaker’s storylines, where clear villains and heroes rarely exist. Vigilante justified his harsh action by pointing out that Auggie had restrained Economos, creating a tense conflict between the characters. Both Danielle Brooks and Steve Agee commented on the stabbing scene being executed so harshly that it left everyone, including viewers, in shock.
John Cena’s portrayal of Chris Smith immediately following the stabbing stood out as particularly powerful. Gunn explained that Cena’s anguished scream and breakdown symbolized Chris reliving traumatic memories, especially of losing his brother. Chris reacts by pushing those around him away and stating with deep anguish:
“It’s not my world that’s wrong…It’s me.”
—Chris Smith
Significance of Auggie Smith’s Death for Peacemaker’s Story
James Gunn concluded that the death of this version of Auggie marked a significant turning point in Chris Smith’s emotional journey. It reinforced the ongoing cycle of violence and pain central to Peacemaker’s narrative, highlighting the personal struggles Chris faces in every reality. This grim moment emphasizes the series’ tension and the lasting effects of violence on its characters, setting up future developments in the storyline.
