“Peacemaker”’s Jennifer Holland on Doing the Majority of Her Own Stunts: ‘Can’t Tell You How Much Pain I Was In’ (Exclusive)

Peacemaker star Jennifer Holland has revealed that she took on the challenge of performing the majority of her own stunts for the hit HBO Max series. The actress, who portrays Harcourt in the show, shared exclusive details with PEOPLE about the physical demands of her role and the dedication required to bring her character to life.

Holland, known for her role in the action-packed superhero series, discussed the intense fight scenes in the show’s second season premiere episode. She expressed her desire for her character to appear convincing in combat, despite her petite stature. “I wanted her to look like she could really beat up large men because she does that a lot this season,” Holland explained.

Preparing for these demanding scenes involved intense physical training with a professional instructor. Holland diligently rehearsed the choreography for weeks to ensure a realistic and impactful performance. She acknowledged the support of her stunt double for the more dangerous sequences but emphasized her commitment to performing a majority of the fight scenes herself.

Despite enduring physical strain and pain during filming, Holland expressed her enthusiasm for blending acting with action. She revealed her aspirations to delve further into the action genre, citing encouragement from fellow actor Frank Grillo. His praise for her performance in an action sequence ignited a newfound passion for pursuing action-oriented roles in the future.

Reflecting on her experience on Peacemaker, Holland highlighted the rewarding nature of embracing the challenges of her character. She noted the creative fulfilment of exploring the physicality of her role and expressed a keen interest in engaging in more action-oriented projects moving forward. The actress’s dedication to her craft and willingness to push boundaries in her performances underscore her commitment to her career.

As the show progresses, Holland teased audiences with hints of what’s to come in future episodes, promising a “really shocking, fun ride” ahead. She expressed admiration for her character’s evolution in the second season and praised creator James Gunn for his visionary storytelling. Holland’s collaboration with Gunn, who also happens to be her real-life husband, reflects a dynamic partnership rooted in mutual respect and creative synergy.

Navigating the complexities of balancing personal and professional dynamics on set, Holland emphasised the importance of maintaining focus and dedication to their craft. She highlighted the seamless collaboration with Gunn, crediting their shared understanding and effective communication for enhancing their working relationship. The actress’s unwavering commitment to her role and her profound admiration for Gunn’s directorial vision exemplify a creative partnership built on trust and mutual respect.

As viewers eagerly await each new episode of Peacemaker, Holland’s dedication to her craft and passion for challenging roles continue to captivate audiences. Her fearless approach to performing stunts and commitment to authenticity in her action sequences underscore her versatility and talent as an actress. With a promising future ahead, Holland’s determination to push boundaries and explore new horizons in her career sets her apart as a rising star in the entertainment industry.