‘You have to have a passion for it’: John Cena says he will never be ‘ready’ to have children

John Cena with wife Shay Shariatzadeh had tough discussions about starting a family. Picture: Bang Showbiz

John Cena with wife Shay Shariatzadeh had tough discussions about starting a family. Picture: Bang Showbiz

Published Aug 30, 2024

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John Cena doesn't think he will ever be "personally ready" to be a dad.

The “Blockers” actor - who is married to Shay Shariatzadeh - has a lot he wants to do with his own life, but admitted he doesn't see having children in his future.

Speaking on the Club Shay Shay podcast, he said: “I have a certain curiosity about life, and I also know the investment that it takes.

“As somebody who’s driven, many times stubborn and selfish, I try to approach the world with kindness and curiosity ... but I don’t think I’m personally ready, nor will I ever be, to invest the time (needed) to be a great parent.

“I want to live life for all it is. I still have a lot to do.”

The 47-year-old star admitted he and Shay have had "open conversations" about raising a family, but ultimately found themselves to be "on the same page".

John began the "uncomfortable" discussions very early in their relationship.

He said: "I opened with a few uncomfortable conversations.

“Those were first or second date questions with my now-wife. It’s great because we both got to lean into these uncomfortable moments, address this stuff and build a foundation.”

And as a result of the intense chats so early in their romance, "nothing is off the table" between the couple.

John said: “Nothing is too uncomfortable to be unapproachable. Starting off with a conversation about … what is the definition of our family … helped us forge a path together as a team.”

The WWE star admitted in 2022 he didn't feel "qualified" to be a parent and doesn't have the "passion" for fatherhood.

Appearing on The Drew Barrymore Show, when the host declared he'd be the "world's greatest father" because of his philanthropic efforts and his temperament, he replied: “I think just because you might be good at something, for me, is not a strong enough reason to do that.

“You have to have a passion for it. You have to have a fuel for it.”

BANG Showbiz