DC Studios took center stage in Hall H at San Diego Comic-Con, occupying the prime Saturday evening slot once traditionally dominated by Marvel. James Gunn, now co-head of DC Studios, brought along the highly anticipated second season of Peacemaker, much to the delight of fans.
The excitement intensified when moderator Joshua Horowitz noted, “James, this is the first time you’ve been in front of a crowd since Superman.” The mention triggered a thunderous ovation in the packed hall.
The panel debuted the official trailer for Season 2, offering a wild look into what’s next for John Cena’s Christopher Smith. The footage reveals Peacemaker exploring a parallel dimension—a seemingly better version of our world where he gets close to Jennifer Holland’s Harcourt. Meanwhile, back in reality, Frank Grillo’s Rick Flag Sr. (first seen in Superman) is determined to close the portal that Peacemaker has escaped through. “No matter how great the grass is over there, you belong here with us,” says Leota Adebayo in a heartfelt moment from the trailer.
James Gunn shared insight into the new season’s emotional core. “I love shows where characters evolve instead of resetting each season,” he said. “Peacemaker is a changed man this time around. He’s wrestling with demons uncovered in Season 1, trying to make peace with himself. But the world isn’t ready to see him as a hero.”
Peacemaker Season 2 directly ties into Gunn’s Superman film, with characters like Green Lantern/Guy Gardner (Nathan Fillion), Hawkgirl/Kendra Saunders (Isabela Merced), and Maxwell Lord (Sean Gunn) crossing over. In one teaser scene, the trio interrogates Peacemaker as part of a Justice League interview.
According to the official synopsis, the season follows Christopher Smith as he continues his chaotic quest for peace, battling inner turmoil and external threats alike. “Reconciling the past and kicking butt—sometimes simultaneously,” is the essence of his misadventures.
In a fun reveal, Gunn shared that Michael Rooker will voice a new villain—an elite eagle hunter who serves as a nemesis to Eagly, Peacemaker’s beloved avian sidekick.
Gunn wrote all eight episodes of Peacemaker Season 2 and directed three, including the premiere. He executive produces alongside Peter Safran and John Cena. Additional directors this season include Greg Mottola, Peter Sollett, and Althea Jones. The series is produced by Gunn’s Troll Court Entertainment and The Safran Company in association with Warner Bros. Television.
Peacemaker Season 2 premieres August 21 at 9PM ET/PT on HBO Max.