Maxwell Jacob Friedman continues to build an impressive Hollywood resume, proving that his talents extend far beyond the wrestling ring. The All Elite Wrestling megastar has officially been cast in another major film production, joining the sequel to the holiday action-comedy hit, Violent Night. This role comes hot on the heels of his appearance in the massively successful Happy Gilmore 2.

The move solidifies MJF’s status as a legitimate crossover star, landing a key role in an anticipated Universal Pictures franchise. He will star alongside the returning David Harbour, who is set to reprise his role as a Santa Claus with a very particular set of skills. While details on MJF’s character are being kept under wraps for now, the film, titled Violent Night 2, is scheduled for a theatrical release on December 4, 2026.

Another Big Screen Brawl

The original 2022 film Violent Night was a surprise hit, following an embittered and lethal Santa who takes on a team of mercenaries. Deadline reports the sequel is being produced by 87North, the company founded by Kelly McCormick and David Leitch, known for its high-octane action films. MJF joins a formidable cast that includes Kristen Bell, Daniela Melchior, Jared Harris, and Joe Pantoliano, placing him among a group of established and respected actors.

A Golden Boy in Hollywood

This casting is the latest in a string of high-profile acting gigs for the man known as one of the biggest heels in professional wrestling. MJF recently played the son of Adam Sandler in Netflix’s Happy Gilmore 2 and earned rave reviews for his dramatic turn in the critically acclaimed film The Iron Claw. He also has the crime-thriller Strangelhold currently in post-production. While he remains a main event attraction for AEW, famously selling out Wembley Stadium, MJF is making it clear that his ambitions for screen stardom are just as grand.