Inside James Gunn's Plan: How Peacemaker Season 2 Sets Up the Future of the DCU
The Peacemaker Season 2 finale, titled “Full Nelson,” constitutes a turning point for the DC Universe under the creative direction of James Gunn and Peter Safran. Following the July release of Superman, which launched the new cinematic era of the DCU, Gunn confirmed that Peacemaker’s conclusion serves as a critical foundation for the interconnected storylines ahead.
James Gunn confirms Peacemaker’s Season 2 finale reshapes the DC Universe, introducing Checkmate and Salvation — key to Man of Tomorrow and beyond.
From left: Nhut Le, Tim Meadows, Freddie Stroma, Danielle Brooks, John Cena, and Jennifer Holland on “Peacemaker.”
From left: Sol Rodriguez, Jennifer Holland, Anissa Matlock on “Peacemaker.”
John Cena in “Peacemaker.”
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During a virtual press conference, Gunn explained that the finale introduces two key elements from DC Comics — the secret agency Checkmate and the metahuman prison planet Salvation. Both are set to play major roles across upcoming DC projects, including Lanterns and the 2028 Superman sequel, Man of Tomorrow. Gunn stressed that these storylines were always part of his long-term vision for the DCU, predating his appointment as co-chief of DC Studios.
Checkmate makes its debut through the series’ emotional resolution. Chris Smith, also known as Peacemaker (John Cena), is rescued by his allies after a spiral of guilt and isolation. Reuniting with Adebayo, Vigilante, Economos, and Harcourt, he finds renewed purpose as they establish Checkmate — a rogue agency devoted to fighting corruption and making real change. The team’s creation reflects Gunn’s goal of portraying anti-heroes as complex, evolving figures.
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Gunn highlighted his admiration for Checkmate’s comic book history, noting its significance as a unifying force for morally gray heroes. The agency, which also features Judomaster and former A.R.G.U.S. agents Fleury and Bordeaux, will continue to operate independently within the DCU. Their reappearance in future projects will show an evolved version of the organization.
The finale also unveils Salvation, a newly discovered alternate planet identified through Peacemaker’s portal. A.R.G.U.S. leader Rick Flag Sr. (Frank Grillo) designates it as a containment world for dangerous metahumans. Inspired by the Salvation Run storyline from DC Comics, Gunn’s adaptation reimagines the concept as a morally charged experiment that could reshape the DCU’s cosmic scale.
Gunn shared that he initially considered a humorous cameo featuring Deadpool, but logistical hurdles prevented it. He described Salvation as both fascinating and perilous, designed to explore the ethical boundaries of power and punishment. The episode ends with a dramatic twist — Peacemaker’s abduction by Flag Sr., who exiles him to Salvation as retribution for the death of his son, Rick Flag Jr.
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Regarding a potential third season, Gunn clarified that Peacemaker is currently on hold as the DCU’s larger narrative moves forward. He left the door open for future episodes but stressed that the focus now lies on Man of Tomorrow and other interconnected films. Cena’s return as Peacemaker remains unconfirmed, though the character’s influence within Gunn’s overarching story is expected to continue.
Gunn also reflected on Peacemaker’s evolution from a satirical “douchey Captain America” in The Suicide Squad to a deeply human character symbolizing empathy and moral growth. The finale’s emotional beats underscore the show’s central message about understanding and redemption, themes Gunn said will remain central to his DC storytelling approach.
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Audiences will not need to watch Peacemaker to follow Man of Tomorrow, Gunn assured. The film will independently introduce the key concepts while rewarding fans who have followed the series. He underlined the importance of balancing accessibility and continuity in building a cohesive cinematic universe, avoiding excessive exposition in favor of emotionally grounded storytelling.
As the DCU moves into its next phase, Gunn confirmed he will continue to write and direct select projects central to the overarching narrative, including future stories involving Superman, Lex Luthor, Rick Flag Sr., and Salvation. The filmmaker acknowledged the challenges of managing multiple franchises but expressed excitement for what lies ahead.
