Fast & Furious Cast Wasn’t Sure About Adding John Cena To Franchise

Fast 9 is out and the reception from critics did not match the film’s box office dominance. John Cena was featured as a new Family member in the film, and spoiler alert: he survives the movie. So, Cena could be around for the final two installments of the franchise.

Cena’s addition to the Fast cast ironically coincides with The Rock’s departure. Dwayne Johnson has confirmed that he will not be back for Fast 10 or 11. Bringing John Cena into the situation was also a moment met with uncertainty from much of the existing cast members.

People recently spoke with John Cena where he likened his initiation into the Fast Family to gaining acceptance in the WWE locker room. They were a bit hesitant at first, but that quickly changed.

“They were kind of apprehensive to me being there, just like we are in WWE like, ‘Who is the new kid?’ But then when the new kid does something good or like when you have good open conversations, it’s like, ‘Yeah, you’re alright.’ Or as Vin calls it, ‘the family.’ That’s super rare in film. Because usually you do the project, you move on. It’s like a wonderful summer camp. You make great friends and some you stay in touch with them, and some you don’t, but you do the thing and then you move on. This family gets together like every two years to do Fast [films].”

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“They’re celebrating its 20th anniversary. This is a global franchise that has entertained fans for two decades. I’ve been a WWE performer for, next year will be my 20th anniversary. So to see Vin and Jordana [Brewster], Michelle [Rodriguez] and the crew, Tyrese [Gibson], and Luda [Ludacris], they’ve been in these characters for 20 years. It felt as homey as a WWE locker room. I’ve never felt that anywhere.”

John Cena was so well-loved by the time they wrapped shooting that Vin Diesel said that he feels Paul Walker delivered the 16x World Champion to them. Cena was very flattered of Vin’s opinion.

Obviously, John Cena is welcome to return for another ride with the Fast Family. The bigger issue stands with Cena’s other commitments and exploding career at this juncture.

What’s your take on this story? Did John Cena replace The Rock? Sound off in the comments!