John Cena’s Changing Views On Having Kids: A Timeline Of His Journey

John Cena’s

For much of his adult life and career, John Cena was clear and consistent about not wanting children. His reasoning centered on his intense dedication to his work-first as WWE’s top star, then as a Hollywood actor-and a belief that being an absent parent was unacceptable. 

John Cena’s

Cena felt that his demanding schedule would not allow him to be the present, committed father he believed children deserve. This stance was a major factor in his relationships, particularly with Nikki Bella, where the topic of children was a well-known point of contention. 

John Cena’s

Public Statements and Relationship Impact 

In 2016, Cena described having children as a “non-negotiable” he could not compromise on, telling Rolling Stone, “I know I cannot handle raising a child... I don’t have the time. 

John Cena’s

Public Statements and Relationship Impact 

And just because everyone else is happy with children doesn’t mean that’s how I have to live”. On “Total Divas,” Cena reiterated to Nikki Bella that he did not want marriage or kids, causing strain in their relationship.

John Cena’s

Signs of Change and Reconsideration 

Despite his longstanding position, Cena’s attitude began to shift in the late 2010s:  In a 2018 interview, he acknowledged reconsidering fatherhood, influenced partly by his role as a parent in the film *Blockers*. He said the experience made him reflect on the bond between parent and child and made him “consider being a parent more”. 

John Cena’s

Signs of Change and Reconsideration 

Around the same time, after his breakup with Nikki Bella, Cena publicly stated, “Of course. I would love to be a Dad. And by the way, that’s an about-face for me and I realize very much that I have been steadfast in saying that I don’t want children. But I’m a little bit older, a little bit wiser”.  

John Cena’s

Recent Developments  

Since marrying Shay Shariatzadeh in 2020, Cena has remained private about his personal life. However, recent reports suggest that his perspective on having children may be evolving further.  

John Cena’s

Recent Developments  

Sources close to the couple indicate that as Cena ages, he is becoming more open to the idea of parenthood, possibly considering starting a family with Shariatzadeh. 

John Cena’s

John Cena’s views on having children have evolved significantly over the years. Once adamant about not wanting kids due to his career and personal convictions, he has shown increasing openness to the idea as his life circumstances and perspectives have changed.  

John Cena’s