Landing on HBO Max on August 21, 2025, Peacemaker Season 2 is here to crank up the volume with its signature blend of bloodshed, humor, and hair metal. James Gunn returns as the mastermind behind this eight-episode DC Universe (DCU) series, picking up the pieces after The Suicide Squad and Season 1. John Cena’s Christopher Smith, aka Peacemaker, is back, juggling his violent tendencies with a quest for redemption. With weekly episodes rolling out, does this season keep the party going? Let’s find out.
A Bonkers New Adventure
Season 2 tosses Peacemaker into a whirlwind of trouble. After thwarting an alien takeover in Season 1, Chris is now dodging A.R.G.U.S. operatives, led by a furious Rick Flag Sr. (Frank Grillo), who’s out for blood over his son’s death. The plot takes a trippy turn when Chris stumbles into a parallel world where his life looks suspiciously idyllic. Set in Gunn’s rebooted DCU, the story nods to Superman (2025) but stands on its own, making it easy for newcomers to jump in.
The first five episodes (provided for review) deliver a rollercoaster of mayhem. From barroom brawls to absurd one-liners, the show leans into its R-rated roots with glee. The opening dance number—set to a headbanging track like Steel Panther’s “Gloryhole”—is gloriously over-the-top, signaling that Peacemaker hasn’t lost its unapologetic edge. Yet, beneath the chaos, the season explores Chris’ guilt, his fractured bond with his late father, Auggie (Robert Patrick in flashbacks), and his search for purpose, adding a layer of depth that sneaks up on you.
Cena and Crew Bring Their A-Game
John Cena is a force of nature as Peacemaker, blending swagger, vulnerability, and pitch-perfect comedy. Whether he’s spouting crude quips or wrestling with his past, Cena makes Chris a lovable trainwreck you can’t look away from. His physicality in action scenes—think flipping over tables while wielding a shotgun—pairs beautifully with quieter moments where his eyes betray a man haunted by his choices.
The supporting cast keeps the energy high. Danielle Brooks’ Leota Adebayo navigates her post-Waller life with sharp humor and heart. Jennifer Holland’s Emilia Harcourt evolves from icy operative to fierce ally, stealing scenes with her dry wit and killer punches. Freddie Stroma’s Vigilante is a chaotic delight, while Steve Agee’s John Economos delivers deadpan gold. New faces like Sol Rodríguez as Sasha Bordeaux and Frank Grillo as Rick Flag Sr. inject fresh tension, with Grillo’s grizzled intensity making him a standout antagonist. Even Eagly, Peacemaker’s loyal eagle, gets moments to shine—often hilariously.
What Rocks and What Wobbles
Peacemaker Season 2 nails the big stuff. The action is relentless, with creative fight sequences that feel like a gritty comic book come to life. The humor is gloriously unfiltered—expect laugh-out-loud moments involving Vigilante’s questionable morals and Chris’ bizarre pop culture rants. The soundtrack, packed with ‘80s-inspired metal, is practically a character itself. Gunn’s direction keeps the vibe kinetic, and the show’s neon-drenched visuals are a feast for the eyes.
But it’s not flawless. The shift toward heavier emotional stakes sometimes clashes with the show’s anarchic spirit, leading to a few uneven episodes. Certain DCU tie-ins, like brief Justice Gang appearances, feel more like setup for future projects than essential to the story. The absence of the final three episodes in review copies hints at major twists, but the early episodes can feel light on the high-stakes urgency that drove Season 1’s alien plot. Still, the show’s heart and humor keep it engaging.
Worth the Stream?
Peacemaker Season 2 is a bold, bloody, and wickedly funny sequel that builds on the original while forging its own path. It’s not quite as tight as Season 1, but it’s a damn good time, with Cena’s performance and Gunn’s vision making it a must-watch for DC fans. Early buzz gives it a 95% on Rotten Tomatoes (from 40 reviews), praising its mix of heart and havoc, though some note it leans too hard into drama at times.
If you love unhinged action, irreverent comedy, or just want to see John Cena dance in tighty-whities to heavy metal, this season delivers. Stay for the post-credits scenes—Gunn promises they’re a riot.
Verdict: 4/5
Peacemaker Season 2 is a rowdy, heartfelt blast that proves Chris Smith is still the DCU’s most lovable lunatic. Stream it for the action, laugh at the absurdity, and brace for an emotional punch or two.
#PeacemakerSeason2 is streaming now on #HBOMax in the US (and #JioHotstar in India), with new episodes every Thursday through October 9, 2025. Got thoughts on the season? Drop them in the comments below!
