Thu. Oct 2nd, 2025

Fortnite Disables John Cena Emote After Controversial Peacemaker S2 Reveal

Epic Games has temporarily or permanently removed the “Peaceful Hips” emote in Fortnite, an item linked to superstar John Cena`s character, Peacemaker, following concerns about its potential connection to Nazi symbolism.

The “Peaceful Hips” emote, a collaboration between Epic Games and James Gunn`s DC series Peacemaker, features a character rotating their hips and forming alternating `L` shapes with their arms. This distinctive, awkward dance is famously performed by John Cena`s character in the second season`s opening. Initially perceived as a comedic element contrasting with Peacemaker`s often violent nature, the emote`s meaning dramatically shifted after a recent episode of the show.

Slight Spoilers for Peacemaker Season 2, Episode 6 Ahead

In the September 25 episode, titled “Ignorance Is Chris,” Peacemaker uncovers that his beloved alternate dimension is, in fact, a Nazi-controlled America. This disturbing reality depicts an Anglo-centric state with only white inhabitants and American flags replaced by swastikas. This revelation has led many to reinterpret Peacemaker`s signature dance from the Season 2 opening, with the alternating `L` shapes now seen by some as symbolic representations of the swastika.

Following fan observations and discussions on social media platforms like X (formerly Twitter), Epic Games promptly removed the emote from Fortnite. The company stated it is investigating its partner`s “creative intentions” behind the emote, implying its removal could be permanent.

“We`re disabling the Peaceful Hips Emote in Fortnite as we inquire into our partner`s creative intentions in this collab emote,” Epic Games announced on X on September 28. “Assuming it`s not coming back, we`ll issue refunds in the next few days. Sorry folks.”

James Gunn, the showrunner for Peacemaker, has not yet publicly addressed the controversy. While he promoted the Fortnite collaboration on X on September 13, his frequent social media activity suggests there`s a possibility he might comment on Epic Games` decision soon.

By Bramwell Nightingale

A Toronto-based gaming journalist with over eight years of experience covering the North American gaming industry. Started his career writing for independent gaming blogs before establishing himself as a reliable source for breaking gaming news. Specializes in AAA game releases and studio acquisitions across Canada and the US. His investigative approach to gaming industry developments has earned him respect among developers and publishers alike

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