WWE icon turned Hollywood leading man John Cena makes no attempt to downplay his clear awe of Superman actor Henry Cavill, humbly dubbing himself Cavill’s sidekick and “best friend” in their new espionage thriller project Argylle.

Discussing the most awaited spy caper from graphic novel adapter Matthew Vaughn, Cena spotlighted leading man Cavill while diminishing his own role as the supporting character, Wyatt.

So why does the 16-time WWE Champion seem so willing to relinquish the spotlight for Cavill? Likely because Cena remains awestruck by the latter’s signature role as Superman in the DC Extended Universe. Cavill indelibly captured Cena’s imagination donning the red cape and tights as the iconic Kryptonian hero.

Does John Cena Deem Himself Unworthy Next to Cavill’s Star Power?

John Cena – Argylle

When John Cena made an appearance on Goodmorning America, he was asked to describe his role as Wyatt. Cena definitively branded himself “I am like a best friend, I’m like a sidekick” to Cavill rather than positioning the two as equal co-stars.

This perceived demotion contrasts with Cena’s typical big screen billing anchoring action vehicles like The Marine franchise and the Fast Saga. In touting Argylle’s trailer and stellar ensemble cast, Cena seemingly cedes the spotlight to Cavill, the most iconic screen superhero of the modern era thanks to the Brit’s universally praised take on Superman.

Sharing the screen at last after years of mutual respect, Cena appears intent on cheerleading his higher-profile co-star rather than competing with him.

But early footage showcases both veterans’ natural charisma and physicality thriving in Argylle’s slick spy landscape. If Cena insists on playing second fiddle, it may prove a canny move to let Cavill’s wattage take center stage.

Henry Cavill – Argylle

Fueled by its eclectic cast and playful tone, director Vaughn’s latest adaptation seems primed to launch a whole new espionage franchise. Can the burgeoning bromance between Cena and Henry Cavill prove an essential ingredient if Argylle spawns sequels?

Now finally sharing the screen, Cena appears intent on cheerleading his higher-profile co-star rather than competing with him. But based on early footage, both action veterans shine brightly in Argylle’s distinct espionage landscape.

Can Fans Expect Argylle to Launch a Spy Franchise?

John Cena and Dua Lipa – Argylle

Helmed by graphic novel adaptor Matthew Vaughn (Kick-Ass, Kingsman), slick spy adventure Argylle brings together a murderer’s row of Hollywood talent. The cast includes Sam Rockwell, Bryce Dallas Howard, Catherine O’Hara, pop superstar Dua Lipa, and even Samuel L. Jackson.

With such rich ingredients, talks of sequels and spinoffs have already begun percolating. Vaughn previously transformed Mark Millar’s Kingsman comics into a successful multi-film franchise. If Argylle pops theatrically, Cena and Cavill could find themselves reprising their buddy dynamic for future installments.

For now, their burgeoning on-screen bromance offers plenty of appeal when Argylle launches this February. Cena’s reverent attitude towards his Superman co-star should make their spy alliance engaging for audiences.

Argylle lands in theaters on February 2, 2024.