The neon-lit helmet is back, but this time Peacemaker’s quest for redemption faces explosive consequences from his violent past. As John Cena’s conflicted antihero returns for Season 2 on August 21, 2025, viewers need more than butterfly memes to navigate the chaos. James Gunn’s critically acclaimed series demands homework—here’s what you must watch to survive the ride.

What Must You Watch Before Peacemaker Season 2?

Peacemaker Season 1 remains non-negotiable. While the “butterfly” alien plot concludes, Leota Adebayo’s (Danielle Brooks) game-changing press conference ignites Season 2’s conflict. As Dexerto’s 4-star review noted, her exposure of Amanda Waller’s Task Force X dismantles the team and triggers governmental fallout. Crucially, this sets Waller (Viola Davis) and A.R.G.U.S. directly against Peacemaker—a rift that fractures alliances and fuels new betrayals.

The Suicide Squad (2021) provides vital context for Chris Smith’s moral crisis. His cold-blooded murder of Rick Flag Jr. (Joel Kinnaman) haunts Season 2, manifesting through Flag’s vengeful father. James Gunn confirmed at Comic-Con: “Peacemaker struggles to be better, but his past won’t let go—especially his relationship with Rick Flag Jr.’s dad.” This trauma-driven vendetta forces Peacemaker to confront his most brutal legacy.

How Creature Commandos and Superman Set the Stage

Creature Commandos (streaming now) introduces Rick Flag Sr. (Frank Grillo) as leader of Waller’s monstrous black-ops team. As reported by Warner Bros., Grillo voices Flag Sr. in both this animated series and Peacemaker Season 2, establishing his ruthless authority over A.R.G.U.S. Viola Davis and Steve Agee also reprise their roles across both projects, confirming deep narrative ties. Flag Sr.’s promotion positions him as Peacemaker’s primary antagonist—a grieving father with state-sanctioned resources.

Superman (2025) delivers critical Justice Gang groundwork. Peacemaker’s cameo—ranting about Superman on right-wing TV—and the Justice Gang’s debut (Mr. Terrific, Hawkgirl, Guy Gardner) directly influence Season 2. Gunn revealed to Collider: “Chris wants Justice Gang acceptance, so he’ll stop insulting Superman.” Episode 1 features the team in a hilarious retcon of Season 1’s events, escalating tensions between government operatives and superheroes.

Peacemaker returns to HBO Max on August 21, 2025, and Sky Max UK on August 22. For deeper DCU immersion, explore our guides to the best superhero movies and essential superhero TV shows of the decade.

Must Know

Why does Rick Flag Sr. target Peacemaker?
Flag Sr. blames Peacemaker for his son’s death in The Suicide Squad. Now leading A.R.G.U.S., he weaponizes government assets for revenge. Frank Grillo’s performance bridges Creature Commandos and Season 2, emphasizing the personal stakes.

Do I need to watch all of Creature Commandos?
Yes. The series establishes Flag Sr.’s leadership style, Waller’s expanding operations, and John Economos’ (Steve Agee) role in Task Force X. Key voice actors reprise live-action roles, confirming shared continuity.

How does Superman connect to Peacemaker Season 2?
Beyond Peacemaker’s on-air insults, the Justice Gang’s formation directly impacts his ambitions. Episode 1 features Superman’s team, and Chris Smith’s desire to join them drives his Season 2 character arc.

Is Amanda Waller in Season 2?
Viola Davis returns, but as an antagonist. Adebayo’s Season 1 exposé forces Waller underground, setting her against both Peacemaker and her daughter in a high-stakes power struggle.