When the producers of action star John Cena’s new film, Playing With Fire, approached Good Housekeeping to join them in honoring the lifesaving work of America’s first responders, they jumped at the chance.
Earlier this year, GH readers from across the country nominated their personal heroes for Good Housekeeping’s Playing With Fire Hometown Heroes contest. While only one winner got to appear on the November cover with John, they salute all of the incredible nominees that they had the privilege of learning from.
Here, they ask John why this cause is so important to him, and showcase just a few of the remarkable people on the front lines fighting to keep our families safe every day.
QUOTES FROM COVER STORY
On his definition of a hero: “To me, a hero is anyone who lives with passion and purpose, no matter what kind of job he or she clocks in to. What sets first responders apart is that an ordinary day of work can include willingly facing down danger. I admired that because it is something I have trouble doing. I enjoy doing stunts, but when something doesn’t seem too safe, I’m like, ‘We should talk this over…’”
On why he chose to partner with GH for the Playing With Fire Hometown Heroes Contest: “I wanted to use the buzz around my new movie, Playing With Fire (I play a smokejumper) to showcase real rescuers. So I teamed up with Good Housekeeping and put out the call for people to nominate a hero who inspired them. Here’s why I was so eager to spotlight them.”
On his brother, Dan, a cop of 20 years: “I know he has been in some pretty hair situations and emergences to which I will never be able to relate. Those things come with the job he’s dedicated his life to. But like most first responders, he’s humble. So I think it’s up to us to find out who the people in our communities are who save lives — and let them know they are appreciated.”
QUOTES FROM DIGITAL FEATURETTE
On if his views of parenting have changed: “No … I don’t have a negative view towards parenting, so it doesn’t change it. If anything, I’ve grown to enjoy being around children more and more. I’ve always enjoyed it, but it used to be only maybe in like a performance aspect…And it’s cool because how much kids want to learn and how excited they are to learn about the questions that they have, no matter how ridiculous … I just …I don’t know if I could do it. Or I’m not sure I can do it full-time right now.”
On his future with WWE: “As a 42-year-old, going to be 43 in April … I already know that I’m a little lighter, I’m a little slower, I’m not as strong, so all of the physical signs are like, ‘I’m here, I’m here, I’m here.’ … I can lie to myself and say those things aren’t happening. They are. And either I accommodate my performance, or just say, ‘hey it’s time to do something different.’ I don’t ever want to use the word retire. WWE is my family, they’ll always be my family and none of any of this exists without them, and I will never forget that.”