Summer 2025 is set to be a thrilling period for DC fans, with the much-anticipated release of "Superman" in theaters, marking the live-action debut of James Gunn and Peter Safran’s DCU. Hot on its heels, fans can look forward to another season of "Peacemaker," featuring John Cena reprising his role as the peace-obsessed yet violent Christopher Smith. The return of the Season 1 cast promises more of the quirky, action-packed adventures that fans have come to love.
The first trailer for Peacemaker Season 2 offers a glimpse into the upcoming plot and its connections to both the first season and Gunn's "The Suicide Squad." From intriguing new details about the DCU timeline and Rick Flagg's role as a "villain" to the noticeable absence of Vigilante, there's much to unpack from this trailer.
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Freddie Stroma’s Vigilante in Peacemaker Season 2
Calling Christopher Smith, portrayed by John Cena, the least interesting character in "Peacemaker" would be a disservice. He's a fascinating figure who embodies the paradox of advocating for peace while engaging in warfare. His character is a classic blend of Gunn's signature humor and underlying warmth.
However, "Peacemaker" isn't just about its titular hero; it's a true ensemble piece. The supporting cast is vital to the show's success, much like "The Flash" series on The CW thrived on its Team Flash dynamic. Among these characters, Freddie Stroma's Vigilante has been a standout, stealing scenes with his unique blend of humor and pathos. Despite being a departure from the comics, his entertaining presence makes up for it.
It's disappointing to see less of Vigilante in the Season 2 trailer. While John Cena's Peacemaker naturally takes center stage, and Jennifer Holland's Emilia Harcourt grapples with her rage, Vigilante's Adrian Chase is pushed to the background. The trailer shows him working at a fast food restaurant, grappling with the realization that saving the world doesn't guarantee fame. Hopefully, this doesn't reflect his overall role in the season.
Meeting the DCU Justice League
The trailer kicks off with a surprising scene where Peacemaker attends an open interview with the Justice League. Characters like Sean Gunn's Maxwell Lord, Nathan Fillion's Guy Gardner, and Isabela Merced's Hawkgirl are present, and it's evident they're not impressed by Peacemaker. This scene offers a deeper look into the Justice League's dynamics, presenting a more sarcastic and irreverent team compared to the previous DCEU version.
James Gunn's influence from the "Justice League International" comics is clear, focusing on a group of eclectic misfits rather than the usual A-listers. This approach not only suits the "Peacemaker" tone but also brings a fresh perspective to the DCU. The humor and personality that Isabela Merced brings to Hawkgirl is particularly noteworthy, promising a more enjoyable take on the character than previous adaptations.
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The Return of Frank Grillo’s Rick Flagg, Sr.
Frank Grillo's Rick Flagg, Sr. is emerging as a pivotal figure across the DCU, having appeared in the "Creature Commandos" animated series and set to make his live-action debut in "Superman." In "Peacemaker Season 2," Flagg is poised to be the main antagonist, though his role as a grieving father and the new head of ARGUS adds complexity to his character. His conflict with Peacemaker promises a compelling narrative, given Peacemaker's past actions in "The Suicide Squad."
Making Sense of the DCU Timeline
The continuity between "The Suicide Squad" and "Peacemaker Season 2" is notable, suggesting that the former might serve as the unofficial first DCU movie. The timeline is taking shape, with "The Suicide Squad" in 2021, "Peacemaker Season 1" in 2022, "Creature Commandos" in 2024, "Superman" in July 2025, and "Peacemaker Season 2" in August 2025. Subsequent projects like "Lanterns" and "Supergirl: Woman of Tomorrow" will further expand the DCU.
James Gunn has expressed a desire to retain elements from "The Suicide Squad" and "Peacemaker Season 1," despite the new DCU continuity. As Gunn told IGN in a recent interview, the importance of canon is relative, emphasizing the authenticity and care put into these stories. However, Gunn acknowledges the challenge posed by the DCEU Justice League cameo in "Peacemaker Season 1," which he plans to address in Season 2.
The trailer hints at a multiverse element, with Peacemaker encountering another version of himself in his father's dimension, which could provide the means to resolve the Justice League continuity issue. Gunn's approach suggests a seamless integration of "The Suicide Squad" and "Peacemaker Season 1" into the new DCU, maintaining beloved characters like Margot Robbie's Harley Quinn.
As "Peacemaker Season 2" unfolds, the clarity of the DCU canon should become more apparent. Fans eagerly await its return, hoping for more screen time for Vigilante and a deeper exploration of the evolving DCU universe.
