James Gunn, creator of the DC Universe series Peacemaker, disclosed his decision to remove a Hitler-related joke from Season 2 amid its intense and unexpected storylines. The show, featuring John Cena as Chris and his group known as the 11th Street Kids, explores an alternate reality dominated by Nazis, where humor involving Hitler imagery was reconsidered by Gunn for being inappropriate.
Context Behind the Nazi-Themed Storyline
In Peacemaker Season 2, Chris and his team find themselves trapped in a parallel universe overseen by Nazi forces. Despite Chris’s usual ignorance, he initially considers this world might offer some advantages, only to realize the dark reality by the conclusion of Episode 6. This setting allowed the series to incorporate Nazi motifs, creating significant tension and unsettling scenarios.
Why the Hitler Mustache Joke Was Removed
On Peacemaker: The Official Podcast, James Gunn discussed why a scene featuring a Hitler mustache joke did not make it into the final cut. Jennifer Holland, who portrays Emilia Harcourt, described how several actors had to wear fake Hitler mustaches for days during filming. Gunn explained,
“They actually had a bunch of the guys shave Hitler mustaches, and they had to keep these on them for days while we were shooting.” Jennifer Holland, Actress
Gunn further detailed the scene’s content, stating,
“Harcourt says to Peacemaker, ‘You don’t notice the copies of Mein Kampf on every desk?’ And then she points to these guys standing next to the copier and says, ‘What about all those stupid little mustaches?’ And there are all these guys with Hitler mustaches. The lame little mustaches looked too cartoony for me, so I cut it.” James Gunn, Creator
He felt that the gag’s playful nature undercut the seriousness of the Nazi theme, making the joke feel out of place and diminishing the intended tone of the series in those scenes.
Remaining Nazi References and Upcoming Episodes
Despite the removal of the mustache joke, viewers have noticed that Hitler references persist throughout this Nazi-dominated reality within the show. The story continues to emphasize the disturbing aspect of this alternate world without relying on overt comedic elements in that regard. The first seven episodes of Peacemaker Season 2 are available on HBO Max, with the season finale scheduled for October 9, 2025.
This decision by James Gunn highlights the delicate balance required when mixing humor with sensitive historical themes, especially in a series that tackles serious subjects while trying to entertain its audience.
