John Cena’s Next Act: Four Films After WWE Farewell

John Cena’s final appearance in the wrestling ring came during the 13 December broadcast of Saturday Night’s Main Event, where he faced Gunther in what would be his last professional bout. With his storied tenure in WWE now behind him, Cena is turning his full attention to the world of cinema, with four major projects lined up for the coming years.

Animated Antics and Legal Battles

After a period of uncertainty, Warner Bros. is set to release the much-discussed hybrid animation, Coyote vs. Acme, on 28 August 2026. Audiences at the 2025 San Diego Comic-Con were treated to an early glimpse of the film, which has been eagerly awaited by fans. The plot centres on Wile E. Coyote, who, after years of failed attempts to catch the Road Runner, decides to take legal action against the Acme Corporation for their consistently malfunctioning products. Cena steps into the role of Acme’s legal representative, squaring off against Coyote and a character played by Will Forte.

This blend of live-action and animation promises a fresh take on the classic Looney Tunes rivalry, with Cena’s character defending the infamous manufacturer in court. The film’s journey to release has been anything but straightforward, but anticipation remains high for its eventual debut.

From Toy Cars to Family Ties

Another project on Cena’s slate is Matchbox, an Apple Original film inspired by Mattel’s iconic miniature vehicles. While details about the storyline remain closely guarded, it is confirmed that Cena will take the lead, with Sam Hargrave directing. The script is being crafted by David Coggeshall and Jonathan Tropper, and further information is expected in due course.

Meanwhile, Netflix has announced a new comedy, Little Brother, featuring Cena alongside Eric André. Directed by Matt Spicer, the film also stars Michelle Monaghan. Cena portrays a successful estate agent whose carefully ordered existence is thrown into disarray when his younger sibling, played by André, unexpectedly re-enters his life. The project is still in development, and a release date has not yet been set.

Comic Book Capers and Star Power

Rounding out Cena’s upcoming ventures is The Leading Man, an action-comedy for Netflix in which he stars opposite Kevin Hart. Based on the comic series by Jeremy Haun and B. Clay Moore, the screenplay is penned by Jon and Erich Hoeber. The narrative follows a self-important film star, played by Cena, who finds himself upstaged by his co-star—Hart—when it emerges that Hart’s character is, in fact, a genuine secret agent tasked with saving the world.

Both Cena and Hart are also on board as producers for this project, which is being developed by Netflix in collaboration with Hartbeat Productions and Ignition Productions. The film promises a blend of action and comedy, with the two leads set to bring their distinct styles to the screen.

Saturday Night’s Main Event is available to stream on Peacock (US).