THR is reporting that WWE star John Cena is set to continue his transition away from the ring, having signed a three-project deal with Nickelodeon which will see him lending his voice to a villain in the animated series Rise of the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles, executive producing a competition series Keep It Spotless, and returning to host the Kids’ Choice Awards.
Cena’s character in the new TMNT animated series is called Baron Draxum, and is described as “an alchemist warrior mutant who seeks to turn all of humanity into mutants.” The original character will debut in the series premiere, and recur throughout the first season.
“I’m thrilled to partner with Nickelodeon on three big projects that run the range of what kids love: slime-filled live events, awesomely cool animation and competition shows where kids take their shot at being the best,” said Cena. “It’s an honor to come back a second time to host the biggest, slimiest party of the year, the Kids’ Choice Awards. Not only do I get to be a cartoon character in the new Rise of the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles series, but I get to be a villain, too. And to top it all off, I’m stepping behind the camera to executive produce Nick’s new competition series Keep It Spotless, which gives a whole new meaning to staying clean.”
Rise of the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles follows Raphael, Leonardo, Donatello and Michelangelo on all-new adventures as they seek to unlock the mystical secrets of New York City. From the tallest skyscraper to the dankest sewer drain, the Turtles will encounter absurd new mutants and battle bizarre creatures all while enjoying their favourite slice of pizza. Tapping into mystic, ninja powers they never knew existed, the four brothers must learn to work together and navigate the perils of the modern age and hidden realms in order to fulfill their destiny to become a team of heroes.
Originally published January 14, 2018. Updated February 3, 2018.
