The New Savior of Comedy Movies; How John Cena Became Hollywood’s Trump Card?
According to the CinemaDrame News Agency, at a time when comedy projects in Hollywood need backers and support more than ever, few have been as successful in this path—both in terms of physical stature and sheer impact—as John Cena.
The WWE legend and successful actor has recently starred alongside Eric André in Netflix’s controversial new comedy, Little Brother. Directed by Matt Spicer and currently streaming, the film also features Michelle Monaghan and Christopher Meloni. The story follows Rod (played by John Cena), a real estate agent whose meticulous, well-planned life is completely turned upside down by the sudden return of his eccentric brother, Marcus (played by Eric André). As usual, Cena’s fearlessness in executing comedic roles shines through in this film.
Speaking to The Hollywood Reporter about how the project came together, John Cena said:
“Eric was pushing hard to get this movie made. Netflix told him, ‘We’ll make this movie, but only if you can get John Cena.’ Eric, who knew me, pitched the idea. I read the script in 90 minutes and gave him the green light 24 hours later. That’s when Netflix realized they had a serious comedy in development.”
The prolific actor seems busier than ever; he is set to star alongside Jennifer Garner in another Netflix comedy, One Left, scheduled for release in 2027. The film will be directed by Kay Cannon, who previously directed Cena in the 2018 comedy Blockers. Speaking to The Hollywood Reporter, Cannon said of him:
“This is my second time working with John, and I fall in love with working with him every single time because he brings value to any role he’s given and is willing to try anything. I am so excited for audiences to see him as a romantic lead; it adds yet another capability to his long list of talents.”
Even Oscar-winning director Peter Farrelly, who directed Cena in the 2024 film Ricky Stanicky, spoke highly of his work ethic:
“I can say without a doubt that John is the most prepared actor I have ever worked with. On the very first day of filming, he knew the entire script from start to finish, line by line.”
Below are excerpts from John Cena’s engaging interview with The Hollywood Reporter:
The Roots of Comedy Fearlessness and Lessons from Wrestling
You had some bold comedic scenes in Blockers, and a similar situation is repeated in Little Brother. Was it difficult for you to perform in these scenes?
When I accept a script, I know exactly what I am signing up for. In Blockers, I played a father trying to protect his daughter, and in Little Brother, Michelle Monaghan’s character goes off the deep end and does something way outside her comfort zone, which leads to a specific comedic situation. I dive into these roles with total enthusiasm.
How did your career path lead you to shine so brightly in the comedy genre?
Without a doubt, the roots of this fearlessness trace back to WWE. The audience there is incredibly loud, honest, and sometimes brutal. You quickly learn that you aren’t going to stay cool and flawless in their eyes for long. The biggest mistake you can make in front of that crowd is not being your authentic self, refusing to take risks, and playing it safe. I applied that lesson to every aspect of my acting. It’s about investing fully in the text, not just forcing cheap jokes for a quick laugh. You also have to trust the process and not fear failure. Near the end of my wrestling career, I was constantly joking around with the crowd, which showed a mutual commitment—it was like telling them, “We’re all in this together.”
Becoming a Bridge for Comedy Filmmaking
Do you have to fight for comedy roles, or do these scripts find their way to you?
My story began when a few prominent, confident comedians were willing to bet on me and gave me small but distinct roles in films like Trainwreck, Sisters, and Daddy’s Home. After that, more comedians placed bigger and bigger bets on me. It all goes back to my wrestling days; I didn’t start at the top there either. Now, things have evolved to a point where I can be the vehicle that lets other comedians shine. I am not the funniest guy in the room, but I can be the beacon of hope that gets studios to greenlight comedy films. Shooting a comedy is pure joy, and every day is filled with laughter. On the other hand, shooting action scenes and 12-hour fight sequences, six days a week—while it looks great in the final product—is physically grueling and leaves no room for joking around (laughs).
Has making comedy films become harder compared to 10 or 20 years ago?
Comedies are not the same as they were 20 years ago. Our world and culture have evolved. We want to be more empathetic human beings, and empathy requires more sensitivity. The last thing I want is a cheap, mean-spirited comedy. When you try to respect everyone’s feelings, you naturally take fewer risks. But now, with a film like Little Brother, we are seeing a throwback; a movie that bends some of those strict rules and simply tries to make you laugh. I hope I can continue to serve as a catalyst for more comedies to be made, making it easier for investors to write checks when they see talents like Eric André.
The Fate of Peacemaker and Hope for the Future
Has there been any talk about Peacemaker returning for a third season?
There are two big bosses sitting at the helm of DC: Peter Safran and James Gunn. You’ll have to ask them that question! But rest assured, if they call and want me back, they’ll have to pry that costume off my dead body, because I absolutely love the character of Peacemaker.
Part of the appeal of comedies like Little Brother is providing a sense of escapism, especially during these challenging times filled with political and cultural divisions. A few years ago, a story went viral about you meeting a Ukrainian fan. How important is it for you to find ways to unite people?
What gives me hope and joy is looking back at history. I urge people to read history. There have been times when horrific human tragedies occurred—things that are hard to even comprehend—yet humanity always found a way to overcome them. So when I feel overwhelmed by current circumstances, I look inward and ask, “What can I do within my own space to shift my mindset and inject a little positive energy?” Looking at the past gives me hope that we can get through tough times. If you can be a source of hope in dark times, hope gives you a second chance. I just want there to always be a chance for things to get better.
Seeing a football player mimic your famous “You can’t see me” gesture at the World Cup must be a reminder of the joy and motivation you spread worldwide.
Seeing that player in the most defining moment of his life, which is the culmination of years of hard work, pulling off that iconic move truly warms my heart and brings a smile to my face.
