What did Frank Grillo find "surprising" about John Cena? Actor opens up after working together on HBO's 'Peacemaker'

Frank Grillo recently shared his thoughts on working with John Cena in season 2 of HBO’s Peacemaker. The actor, who plays Rick Flag Sr., explained that Cena’s performance on the show surprised him in a big way.

Grillo spoke to People during the red carpet premiere of the new season. He said that Cena’s work went beyond what he expected from the wrestler-turned-actor. For him, Cena showed another side of his skills in front of the camera.

Along with his talent, Grillo also said that Cena’s personality made a strong impact. He described his costar as not only professional but also very genuine.

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Frank Grillo on John Cena’s Performance

Frank Grillo said that what shocked him most was Cena’s ability to carry heavy scenes in the new season.

“[I’ve] got to tell you, he surprised me the most because he's an amazing actor,” Grillo told People.

He explained that this season of Peacemaker asks more from Cena as a performer.

“What he does on this show, with this season specifically, he's got some heavy weights to lift,” Grillo added.

The official synopsis of the season reveals that Peacemaker will face his past and also see an alternate world where things are different.

For Frank Grillo, the way Cena handled this material stood out. He said the story is challenging but believed Cena proved his ability to carry the role.

“The material’s heavy,” Grillo said. “But despite this, Cena stepped up and delivered.”

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John Cena’s character and set experience

Frank Grillo also spoke about working with Cena off-camera. He praised him not only as an actor but also as a person.

“He’s maybe the nicest guy I’ve ever met in my life,” Grillo shared.

The actor also said his time on set was positive because of the entire cast.

“It’s an amazingly deep cast. Like, everyone is really great and accomplished. So, I’ve had a ball with everyone. I really have. They’re all amazing,” he added.

Other cast members also praised Cena. Jennifer Holland, who plays Emilia Harcourt, said she enjoyed working with him.

“John's seen as a consummate professional, ... and we're all just doing our best to service the story, so it was just an incredible experience,” Holland said. “I couldn't have asked for a better, more professional partner than John in this whole ride from season 1 to season 2, honestly.”

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Frank Grillo’s comments show that John Cena has impressed not only fans but also his co-stars with his growth as an actor. For Grillo, Cena’s talent in handling serious material and his genuine personality stood out the most.

Season 2 of Peacemaker will bring a more emotional story for the character, and Cena’s performance will be at the center of it. The new season premieres on HBO Max on August 21 at 9 p.m. EST / 6 p.m. PST.