'I don't want them': John Cena on why he doesn't want kids

Actor John Cena. (Photo/Courtesy)

John Cena has once again opened up about his decision not to have children. The 47-year-old actor, known for his role in Peacemaker, has consistently talked about his choice to remain child-free, and he recently reinforced this stance during an appearance on the Club Shay Shay podcast on 21 August.

When host Shannon Sharpe asked Cena if he still didn't want kids, the actor responded, "I don't want them." He explained, "I'm 47. I don't have them."

Sharpe then inquired if Cena had ever thought about having a little "Johnny" or "Joanna." Cena replied, "That's great, and that's usually what everyone says. And I gotta tell you, it's not the easiest out there because a lot of why we're here is to reproduce."

Cena went on to elaborate on his decision: "I have a certain curiosity about life, and I also know the investment that it takes. And my biggest fear is, as someone who's driven, many times stubborn, and selfish, I try to approach the world with kindness and curiosity, but I don't think I'm personally ready, nor will I ever be, to invest the time it needs to be a great parent because I want to live life for all it is. And I still have a lot to do. And I still want to do a lot."

Cena acknowledged that it's a tough subject to talk about because it often leads to judgment. "It's human nature. We're all judgmental," he said.

However, he stressed that he is content with his decision. "I'd like to believe that I operate under the construct that everyone's okay living their life... This is not a knee-jerk reaction. I've thought long and hard about this, even as my youngest age... like 15, 16, I remember thinking about it."

Cena also reflected on his current happiness: "I have a lot of joy and fulfilment in my life. And that's pretty much where I stand on it."

Cena's views on parenthood have been consistent for many years. His previous relationship with WWE star Nikki Garcia ended partly due to their differing views on starting a family.

Despite Cena's willingness to reconsider having children, Garcia felt that it wasn't what he truly wanted.

"Even in the end when he was willing to give me kids, I could just tell, it's not what he wanted," Garcia shared in a 2020 interview.

In a 2022 appearance on The Drew Barrymore Show, Cena discussed how time plays a crucial role in his decision.

"I really enjoy my life. I have been riding a lightning bolt for quite some time now," he said.

Cena noted that he has had opportunities he never even dreamed of, and these experiences have shaped his life.

He explained, "It's hard work to balance the time. I need to run myself correctly. It's hard work to be the best partner and husband I can be to my loving wife. It's hard to keep connections with those in my life who I love, and it's also hard to put in an honest day's work."

Cena concluded by saying that while he understands the societal expectation to have children, he doesn't feel it's the right path for him.