James Gunn has directly addressed the backlash surrounding Peacemaker season 2, a series that initially earned widespread acclaim. The show, which debuted in 2022 and quickly became a fan-favorite among DC enthusiasts, holds a strong reputation thanks to its 93% Rotten Tomatoes score. However, the sophomore season, released three years later on HBO Max with a 95% critics’ score, experienced a notable decline in fan approval, particularly following its finale, where the Rotten Tomatoes audience rating fell nine points to 78%.
When a fan on Threads asked Gunn if he was aware of the criticism aimed at the second season, especially the final episode, the filmmaker admitted he was. Gunn emphasized that “not everyone can love everything,” and although he personally appreciated the finale, he recognized that it was “completely fair” for others to disagree. This admission highlighted Gunn’s acknowledgment of the divisive reactions among viewers.
Contrasting Opinions Between Critics and Fans
The response to Peacemaker season 2 presented a clear split between critical acclaim and fan dissatisfaction. Critics generally praised the season, often regarding it as an improvement over the first, but many fans argued that the show had become weaker in its second outing. Key points of contention included shifts in tone and the extensive use of montages throughout the season. Fans especially criticized the finale for seeming more focused on laying groundwork for future DC Universe projects than delivering a standalone, satisfying conclusion.
Future of the Series and Peacemaker Character Prospects
Currently, there are no confirmed plans for a third season of Peacemaker, leaving uncertainties about whether the creators will revisit the series to address fan concerns or continue the story. Unless this changes, the production team will not have an opportunity to incorporate audience feedback, which has been discussed as part of what some view as a sophomore slump for the show.
Despite this, the character of Christopher Smith, known as Peacemaker and portrayed by John Cena, is expected to remain active within the DC Universe. The season 2 storyline connected directly to James Gunn’s Superman film released in July, which is now streaming on HBO Max. These connections suggest that Cena’s Peacemaker could appear in upcoming DC projects, such as the 2026 Supergirl series or the 2027 Superman sequel titled Man of Tomorrow. Gunn has, however, remained silent on specific details regarding these future appearances.
Gunn’s Perspective on Criticism and the DC Universe Expansion
Rather than being discouraged by the criticism, James Gunn views all opinions—whether positive or negative—as valid within the fandom. This approach reflects his calm and balanced outlook in the face of divided reactions. He intends to continue moving forward with expanding the DC Universe across movies and television, regardless of how Peacemaker’s story unfolds. This determination signals ongoing efforts to build on the worlds introduced through his various projects.
The Peacemaker Series Overview and Cast
Following his survival of a treacherous mission with Task Force X, Christopher Smith returns home only to be drawn back into covert operations. Partnering with a diverse team under the government agency A.R.G.U.S., Smith confronts the alien Butterfly threat while grappling with his own violent history, a troubled upbringing, and his desire to prove he is more than a ruthless killer. The character is played by John Cena, who stars alongside Danielle Brooks as Leota Adebayo, among others.
