James Gunn Confirms His Original Choice for DC’s Peacemaker (And It Would Change Everything)

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Initially, James Gunn envisioned someone else for the character of Peacemaker, which was first brought to life by John Cena in the movie “The Suicide Squad.” However, since then, Cena’s portrayal has enchanted viewers, making him a fan favorite. He further embodied the role brilliantly in “Peacemaker” season 1 and continues to do so in the latest season 2. Despite Cena seeming perfectly suited for the character, Gunn recently disclosed who he had originally intended to play Peacemaker, and it could have significantly altered the series.

In a recent conversation with The Howard Stern Show, Stern inquired about Gunn’s initial casting decision for the character, since he found it difficult to imagine anyone other than Cena successfully portraying the role. At this point, Gunn disclosed that he had initially written the part with his Guardians of the Galaxy colleague Dave Bautista in mind, and Bautista was indeed offered the role.

Dave Bautista, a close friend of mine, portrays Drax in ‘Guardians of the Galaxy.’ I wrote the character of Peacemaker specifically for him, but due to other movie offers and our limited budget, he had to take those opportunities instead. I’ve been a fan of John since ‘Trainwreck,’ particularly his hilarious performance in that film. After meeting and instantly connecting with him, we’ve worked together extensively, having collaborated on two seasons of ‘Peacemaker,’ ‘Suicide Squad,’ and more projects to come. To summarize, Dave Bautista is an exceptional individual and actor.

A Very Different Peacemaker

While it may be challenging to imagine anyone other than Cena as the Peacemaker character, Dave Bautista’s name sparks a vivid image of him in the role. Bautista has demonstrated his ability to balance emotional depth with comedic timing across multiple projects, much like Cena. Additionally, like Cena, Bautista possesses an imposing physique that would make Peacemaker seem like a formidable tank on foot.

Despite the fact that Bautista could’ve excelled in the role, Cena’s distinct comedic delivery and unusual facial expressions throughout the series make him a perfect fit. His performance brings something fresh to the mix that Bautista might not have offered. Now that we’ve witnessed Cena in action, it appears this casting choice was serendipitous.

A New Dynamic Duo

In the sequence of events following their first encounter, Gunn decided to give Cena the part without requiring an audition. He later disclosed a particular instance during the making of “Suicide Squad” where he was convinced of Cena’s acting abilities.

Originally, I didn’t have him try out for the part; instead, I cast him in a minor role. However, as we progressed, it became evident that he was more than just a comedic actor. This realization came to me during filming ‘The Suicide Squad,’ particularly during a close-up shot of John, where I focused intensely on his eyes. I could see the depth of emotion behind them, and I thought, ‘He’s not just funny, he’s genuinely talented.’

In season two, you’ll find him delivering both humor and raw emotion with conviction. I am thrilled for audiences to witness the rest of the show, as I believe ‘Peacemaker’ is my most cherished work yet.

Given Gunn’s impressive portfolio, which spans from the Guardians of the Galaxy trilogy to the latest Superman, it’s a significant compliment. Upcoming projects for Gunn within DC Universe are the Lanterns, Clayface, Supergirl, and Man of Tomorrow – a follow-up to Superman and Peacemaker season 2, continuing the narrative where they left off.

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2025-09-11 03:15