Maxwell Jacob Friedman, widely known as MJF in the wrestling world and the former AEW World Champion, is officially expanding his horizons beyond the squared circle with a role in the upcoming holiday action comedy sequel, Violent Night 2. The news was first reported by Deadline and widely covered by wrestling and entertainment outlets, confirming MJF’s involvement alongside David Harbour, who returns to reprise his role as a tough, action-hero Santa Claus [1][2].

Following his acting debut as Happy Gilmore’s son in Adam Sandler’s Happy Gilmore 2, MJF is proving that his talents extend well beyond professional wrestling. Sources close to Friedman revealed to Wrestling Inc that this new casting in a major studio holiday sequel highlights the ongoing push for his burgeoning film career. The original Violent Night film gained a cult following for its unique blend of holiday cheer and brutal action, with Harbour’s Santa wielding lethal combat skills as he defended a family from mercenaries [1].

Set for a December 4th, 2026 release, Violent Night 2 is already generating buzz for its creative direction. The sequel reportedly embraces a Western-influenced style, inspired by classic holiday films like Miracle on 34th Street but infused with its signature dark humor and intense action. Apart from MJF and Harbour, the cast has been expanded to include Kristen Bell (known for The Good Place), influencer Andrew “King Bach” Bachelor, and Jared Harris from AMC’s The Terror [2][7].

While specific details about MJF’s character remain under wraps, insiders suggest that he will play a significant newcomer, potentially as an ally or antagonist within the story’s explosive yuletide conflict. According to Fightful and PWMania, Friedman’s role marks a key step in his Hollywood journey, with representatives from several talent agencies—including Activist Artists Management, Adventure Media, and CAA—supporting his growing presence in film [1][7].

MJF’s filmography is already growing beyond these high-profile holiday projects. He is also featured in a crime-thriller called Stranglehold, directed by Clark Duke and co-starring Jake Lacy, Ashley Benson, and Justin Long. The film is in post-production and expected to hit film festivals this year, signaling MJF’s ambition to establish a serious acting career alongside his wrestling legacy [1].

Backstage, WWE insiders have taken notice of MJF’s expanding career, discussing how his crossover success in Hollywood distinguishes him from other wrestling talents. One source revealed, “MJF is leveraging his charisma and promo skills to become a multi-platform star. His ability to stay in character while transitioning to acting roles makes him a unique asset for any project.” Such a trajectory hints that MJF’s entertainment career may well extend beyond wrestling, with WWE and AEW both tracking his evolution carefully [1].

Violent Night 2 promises to deliver the explosive, darkly comedic holiday action that fans of the original loved, with David Harbour’s Santa tackling even more dangerous and gritty challenges. The addition of fresh talent like MJF introduces new dynamics and deeper layers to the sequel’s storyline. With the project backed by Universal and producers Kelly McCormick and David Leitch of the 87North banner, expectations are high for a successful continuation of the franchise [2].

In summary, MJF’s casting in Violent Night 2 signals a rising trend of professional wrestlers successfully branching into acting roles in major Hollywood productions. As the December 2026 release date approaches, wrestling and movie fans alike eagerly anticipate seeing MJF bring his unique blend of charisma and intensity to the silver screen once again.

Key Details at a Glance:

• Movie: Violent Night 2, holiday action comedy sequel
• Release Date: December 4, 2026
• MJF’s Role: Unannounced character, part of a star-studded ensemble
• Co-stars: David Harbour (returning as Santa Claus), Kristen Bell, Andrew “King Bach” Bachelor, Jared Harris
• Original Film: Featured a combat-skilled Santa fighting mercenaries to save a family
• Additional Projects: MJF starring in Stranglehold, crime-thriller in post-production
• Representation: Managed by Activist Artists Management, Adventure Media, and CAA
• Industry Insight: Seen as a major crossover success for a wrestler turned actor [1][2][7]

This career momentum reinforces MJF’s position not just as an AEW icon but as a multi-dimensional entertainer poised for continued success across media platforms.

Sources: WrestlingInc, PWMania, Fightful, SoapCentral, Cageside Seats, TheSportster