James Gunn, co-CEO of DC Studios and creator of the HBO Max series Peacemaker, has stated that there are currently no plans to produce a third season of the show. He made the comments following the Season 2 finale in October 2025. At that time, he explained that while a third season is not in development, the characters and storylines will continue within the broader DC Universe (DCU).
Instead of moving forward with another standalone season, Gunn said the focus has shifted to integrating Peacemaker and other characters into upcoming DCU projects. He noted that developments introduced in Season 2 are designed to connect with larger narrative plans. However, he also clarified that he’s not permanently closing the door on the series. While there are no active plans, he indicated that future possibilities remain open.
The series originally premiered in 2022 as a spin-off from the 2021 film The Suicide Squad. It starred John Cena as Christopher Smith, a mercenary who believes in achieving peace by any means necessary. The show quickly established a tone distinct from many other comic book adaptations. As a result, it carved out a specific identity within DC’s streaming lineup.
Controversies Surrounding Mature Content
From its debut, Peacemaker generated discussion because of its mature content. The series carries a TV-MA rating in the United States. Therefore, it includes strong language, sexual content, and graphic violence throughout its run.
One of the most frequently cited elements was its extensive use of profanity. Characters regularly use explicit language in both comedic and serious exchanges. This approach reflected the show’s adult-oriented tone. However, it also led to criticism from some viewers who associated DC properties with broader family audiences.
Peacemaker screaming in season 2 – HBO Max
In addition to language, the series depicted nudity and explicit sexual situations. Notably, the Season 2 premiere featured a party sequence involving multiple nude characters. That scene drew media attention and prompted online debate. Some commentators argued that the content represented a deliberate attempt to distinguish the show from traditional superhero programming. Others questioned whether such material aligned with expectations for a DC-branded project.
Moreover, Peacemaker included intense and graphic violence consistent with its rating. Action scenes often portrayed bloodshed and brutal combat. While this approach matched the tone established in The Suicide Squad, it further reinforced the series’ adult focus. As a result, discussions about content boundaries became part of the broader conversation around the show.
A screenshot of John Cena as Peacemaker in the show Peacemaker – Youtube, DC
Supporters of the creative direction described the mature elements as consistent with the character’s flawed personality and the satirical style of the series. Critics, however, argued that the combination of profanity, nudity, and violence limited accessibility and questioned whether the level of explicit content was necessary for a DC-branded series.
What Comes Next for the Characters
Although a third season is not currently planned, Gunn has indicated that Peacemaker’s characters remain part of DC Studios’ long-term strategy. Gunn said in an interview with Collider, “It is not right now. I think that people should— that doesn’t mean there aren’t plans for these characters, but it’s not necessarily Season 3 of Peacemaker.”
Therefore, viewers may see Chris Smith and his associates appear in other projects.
A screenshot from the intro to Peacemaker Season 2 – YouTube, DC
DC Studios is in the process of building a unified cinematic and television universe under Gunn and co-CEO Peter Safran. As part of that effort, certain characters may shift between films and streaming series. In this context, Peacemaker functions as one chapter in a larger narrative rather than a self-contained story.
At present, there is no production schedule for Season 3. Nevertheless, Gunn has avoided describing the show as officially canceled. Instead, he has framed the pause as a matter of creative direction and broader planning. For now, the future of Peacemaker lies within the evolving structure of the DCU rather than in a direct continuation of the series itself.
Are you hoping to see Peacemaker season 3? What did you think of the show? Let us know your thoughts in the comments below.
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