The seventh episode of Peacemaker season 2, titled
“Like a Keith in the Night,”
is now available on HBO Max, featuring a stunning and violent climax that centers on the vigilante superhero’s drastic decision. The episode follows Adrian, also known as Vigilante, as he attempts to rescue Chris Smith, Emilia Harcourt, and John Economos, resulting in an intense and bloody confrontation.
In this installment, the focus is on a parallel universe known as Earth-X, where Chris and Keith encounter an alternate version of their father, Auggie Smith, known as the Blue Dragon. Contrary to expectations, this Earth-X Auggie is not a Nazi, though his passivity in the face of the oppressive, white supremacist regime in this world casts doubt on his heroism.
Adrian’s Violent Confrontation with Auggie Smith
Auggie ultimately forgives Chris for the death of his alternate self and consents to let the captives return to their original reality. However, this fragile agreement ends in tragedy when Vigilante springs into action, murdering Auggie without warning. Believing his friends are in immediate danger, Adrian attacks Auggie from behind by leaping through a window and stabbing him repeatedly in the neck.
Keith witnesses this brutal act in disbelief before he is overpowered and seriously injured, though he survives the violent encounter. This pivotal moment highlights Vigilante’s unpredictable and ruthless nature, as well as the escalating dangers the characters face in their fight for survival.
James Gunn Discusses the Controversial Scene on the Peacemaker Podcast
Director and writer James Gunn explored this shocking turn of events during the latest episode of the Peacemaker Companion Podcast, joined by guests including Danielle Brooks, Steve Agee, and co-host Jenn Holland. Gunn explained that Adrian’s extreme actions stem from his limited understanding of Auggie’s true character, as he believed Auggie to be the same evil man he knew previously. Furthermore, Gunn emphasized Vigilante’s inherent psychopathic tendencies, which influence his violent decisions.
And we’re back tonight to discuss Episode 7, “Like a Keith in the Night,” with our pal Danielle Brooks on the #Peacemaker Companion Podcast! With my co-hosts @jennlholland & Steve Agee.
Watch now: https://t.co/UZxxum6EWh pic.twitter.com/Ygz7NRAQbF
— James Gunn (@JamesGunn) October 3, 2025
James Gunn talks about Vigilante’s shocking actions in the last moments of Peacemaker Episode 7 pic.twitter.com/nwNPSxXGMu
— DCU PRIME TV (@DCUPRIMETV) October 3, 2025
Context and Themes in the Latest Season
Peacemaker season 2 continues to follow Christopher “Chris” Smith as he grapples with his turbulent past and a newfound mission while carrying out violent acts in his warped quest for peace at any cost. Throughout the season, Chris uncovers an alternate reality that embodies everything he wishes his life could be, yet this discovery forces him to confront his traumatic history and fight to shape his own future.
The series explores Chris’s internal struggle as a vigilante superhero who balances brutality with moments of vulnerability, and it intensifies in this penultimate episode, where loyalty, betrayal, and moral ambiguity collide in irreversible ways.
Significance of Vigilante’s Actions and What Lies Ahead
Adrian’s shocking decision to kill Auggie Smith dramatically shifts the stakes in Peacemaker season 2, emphasizing the unpredictable and volatile nature of the characters’ dynamics. This act not only takes the story in a darker direction but also raises urgent questions about trust and survival within the team.
As the series approaches its finale, viewers can expect heightened tension and complex resolutions stemming from these violent ruptures. James Gunn’s willingness to explore these dark, intense moments reflects the series’ ongoing commitment to subverting traditional superhero narratives with deeper psychological and ethical challenges.
James Gunn talks about Vigilante’s shocking actions in the last moments of Peacemaker Episode 7 pic.twitter.com/nwNPSxXGMu
— DCU PRIME TV (@DCUPRIMETV) October 3, 2025
And we're back tonight to discuss Episode 7, "Like a Keith in the Night," with our pal Danielle Brooks on the #Peacemaker Companion Podcast! With my co-hosts @jennlholland & Steve Agee.
Watch now: https://t.co/UZxxum6EWh pic.twitter.com/Ygz7NRAQbF
— James Gunn (@JamesGunn) October 3, 2025
