The DC Extended Universe is expanding into the TV realm once again with an all-new spin-off, Variety has reported. John Cena (Bumblebee) will be reprising his role from the upcoming The Suicide Squad in an HBO Max series directed and written by James Gunn (Guardians of the Galaxy).
Entitled Peacemaker, the series will depict the origins of the titular character and his dedication to keeping the peace by any means necessary. Peacemaker will be a part of a new group of characters set to be introduced in 2021’s The Suicide Squad, a standalone sequel to 2016’s Suicide Squad. Gunn has written and is directing the 2021 film and will return as lead writer and director for Peacemaker. Describing the series to Variety, Gunn said “Peacemaker is an opportunity to delve into current world issues through the lens of this superhero/supervillain/and world’s biggest douchebag. I’m excited to expand The Suicide Squad and bring this character from the DC film universe to the full breadth of a series.”
Cena will star in and act as co-executive produce (alongside Gunn) for the spin-off. Cena told Variety that “I have said before that it has been a tremendous honor and an incredible opportunity to be part of The Suicide Squad and to work with James on what is going to be a fantastic movie. I am unbelievably excited to have the chance to team up with him again for Peacemaker. We can’t wait for fans to see this.” The series has only been ordered for eight episodes. Production for the series will begin in spring 2021, with The Suicide Squad expected to hit theaters August 6th, 2021.
This is the second DC Extended Universe spin-off show for HBO Max. Last June, the streaming service greenlit spin-off for 2021’s The Batman. Suicide Squad, alongside the rest of the DC Extended Universe, is available to stream on HBO Max. You can view the official sneak peek for the film, including the first look at Peacemaker in action, below.