AEW’s MJF to Star in Christmas Action Comedy Film with David Harbour Please note that this title is crafted based on available information and without confirmation of the details in the original article

MJF Continues Acting Career: Cast in “Violent Night 2” Alongside David Harbour

AEW star Maxwell Jacob Friedman is expanding his acting portfolio, according to Deadline. The former AEW World Champion has been cast in “Violent Night 2,” following his role as Happy Gilmore Jr. in the upcoming “Happy Gilmore 2.” This is the latest step in Friedman’s move towards establishing himself as an actor.

The film will also star David Harbour (“Thunderbolts”), Kristen Bell (“The Good Place”), influencer Andrew “King Bach” Bachelor, and Jared Harris (“The Terror”). The current release date is set for December 4th, 2026. While the plot remains unknown, Harbour will reprise his role as the violent Santa Claus from the first film. That movie saw Santa taking on mercenaries to rescue a family, showcasing a far more aggressive side to the conventional Saint Nick.

The report also notes Friedman has another project, Clark Duke’s crime thriller “Stranglehold,” currently in post-production, scheduled to debut at a film festival this year.Friedman is represented by Activist Artists Management, the literary agency, and CAA. He has previously stated that forging a career in film benefits his work in AEW,and his increasing list of roles suggests he is actively pursuing both paths.

## Summary of the Article: MJF Lands Film Role with David Harbour

AEW’s MJF to Star in Christmas Action Comedy Film with David Harbour

Published: 2025/09/18 09:38:35 | Website: archyde.com | Author: Luis Mendoza

From the Squared Circle to the Silver screen: Maxwell Jacob Friedman’s Hollywood Debut

Maxwell Jacob Friedman, better known to wrestling fans as MJF, the self-proclaimed “Better Than You,” is set to make a meaningful leap into the world of acting. Reports indicate the All Elite Wrestling (AEW) star will co-star alongside David Harbour ( Stranger Things, Black Widow) in a new Christmas-themed action comedy film. While details remain scarce, the project marks a major milestone for the highly charismatic and increasingly popular professional wrestler.This move highlights the growing trend of pro wrestlers transitioning to acting, leveraging their existing fanbase and performance skills.

The Project: A holiday Heist with a twist

Currently untitled, the film is described as a high-energy Christmas movie blending action sequences with comedic timing. Harbour is expected to play a seasoned, cynical detective, while MJF’s role is rumored to be a fast-talking, somewhat morally ambiguous accomplice. The plot reportedly revolves around a daring heist targeting a heavily secured toy manufacturer during the holiday season.

* Genre Blend: The combination of action comedy and Christmas themes aims for broad appeal, potentially attracting families and action movie enthusiasts alike.

* Production Details: Initial reports suggest filming will begin in late 2025 in Vancouver, British Columbia, with a projected release date for the 2026 holiday season.

* Director & Studio: While unconfirmed,industry insiders point to potential involvement from a major studio specializing in holiday releases,and a director known for their work in comedic action films.

MJF’s Acting Background & Readiness

While primarily known for his work in professional wrestling, MJF isn’t a complete newcomer to acting. He’s honed his skills through character work in AEW, demonstrating a natural aptitude for portraying complex and often villainous personalities. His promo skills – the scripted speeches wrestlers deliver – are widely regarded as some of the best in the industry, showcasing his ability to command attention and deliver compelling performances.

* Character Work in AEW: MJF’s character is built on intricate storytelling and nuanced performance, requiring him to convincingly portray arrogance, manipulation, and vulnerability. This experience translates directly to acting.

* Acting Workshops: Sources close to MJF confirm he has been actively participating in acting workshops and private coaching sessions to prepare for the demands of a film role. These sessions focus on screen acting techniques, improvisation, and physical performance.

* Previous Minor Roles: Before the declaration, MJF had a small, uncredited role in an independent film, providing him with on-set experience.

David Harbour’s Influence & The Appeal to Studios

Casting David Harbour alongside MJF is a strategic move.Harbour’s established presence and proven box office draw significantly increase the film’s potential for success. His ability to balance comedic timing with gritty action makes him an ideal partner for MJF, who is known for his similar versatility in the wrestling ring.

* Harbour’s Track Record: Stranger Things and his Marvel Cinematic Universe role have cemented Harbour as a bankable star, attracting studio interest.

* Cross-Promotional Opportunities: the pairing of a mainstream actor like Harbour with a rising star like MJF creates significant cross-promotional opportunities, leveraging both their fanbases. AEW’s social media reach (millions of followers) will undoubtedly be utilized to promote the film.

* The “Wrestling to Hollywood” Trend: The success of Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson and John Cena has paved the way for other wrestlers to pursue acting careers, demonstrating the viability of this pathway. Studios are increasingly recognizing the potential of tapping into the dedicated fanbase of professional wrestling.

The Impact on AEW & MJF’s Wrestling Career

This film venture raises questions about MJF’s future with AEW. His current contract with the promotion is reportedly complex, allowing for outside projects with certain stipulations.

* Contractual Obligations: AEW likely has a clause allowing them a percentage of earnings from MJF’s acting work.

* Scheduling Conflicts: Balancing a film schedule with the demanding travel and performance requirements of professional wrestling will be a challenge.

* Storyline Integration: AEW could potentially integrate the film into MJF’s wrestling storyline, further blurring the lines between kayfabe (the fictional world of wrestling) and reality. This could involve MJF’s character referencing the film or even taking time off for “filming commitments.”

* Increased Mainstream Exposure: Regardless of the long-term impact on his wrestling career, the film will undoubtedly increase MJF’s mainstream exposure, potentially attracting new fans to AEW.

Keywords & Related Searches

This project is generating significant buzz online,driving searches related to:

* MJF acting

* Maxwell Jacob Friedman movie

* David Harbour Christmas movie

* AEW stars in movies

* Pro wrestlers turned actors

* Christmas action comedies 2026

* MJF AEW contract

* Wrestling to Hollywood transition

* Action comedy films

* Holiday movie releases

Real-World Examples: Wrestlers Who Successfully Transitioned to Acting

several professional wrestlers have successfully transitioned to acting careers,providing a blueprint for MJF.

1. Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson: Arguably the most accomplished example, Johnson has become a global movie star, starring in blockbuster franchises like Fast & Furious and Jumanji.
2. John Cena: Cena has carved out a successful acting career, appearing in comedies like Trainwreck and action films like F9.
3. Dave Bautista: Bautista has gained critical acclaim for his dramatic roles in films like Guardians of the galaxy and Blade Runner 2049.
4. Terry Crews: Crews successfully transitioned from the NFL and WCW to a prominent acting career, known for roles in Brooklyn Nine-Nine and Everybody Hates Chris.

These examples demonstrate that with talent, dedication, and strategic career management, professional wrestlers can thrive in the competitive world of Hollywood. MJF’s upcoming film represents a significant step in that direction.