Roku Originals Gears Up for John Cena’s First-Ever Talk Series “What Drives You”

Today, Roku, America’s #1 TV streaming platform*, announced that it has greenlit the celebrity talk series “What Drives You,” hosted by global icon John Cena. “What Drives You” is also John Cena’s first-ever talk series. The new series expands Roku Originals’ existing relationship with John Cena which includes Cena’s prior role in the comedy series “Die Hart 2: Die Harter” and the upcoming docuseries “WWE Superstars of Tomorrow,” featuring and executive produced by Cena.

Cena is revving up the engine in “What Drives You,” a breakthrough talk show format, where he’ll hit the road with his celebrity friends in their favorite vehicles that hold a special meaning to them. In each episode, he’ll hitch a ride with a new guest for an in-depth interview and curiosity-fueled excursion, as they discuss a wide variety of both laugh-out-loud and deeply personal topics, all the while reminiscing about some of the guest’s favorite memories associated with their prized ride.

“The car you drive and where you drive it can say a lot about who you are, from your personality type to what you value and prioritize the most,” said Cena. “‘What Drives You‘ is all about tapping into this and each guest’s unique connection to their car, and a destination close to their heart, as the crux of a candid and wide-ranging conversation. It’s a great opportunity for me to ride shotgun and learn from some of the world’s most entertaining and inspiring individuals.”

“We’re thrilled to partner with John Cena and Leftfield Pictures to bring our audience ‘What Drives You‘, a talk series that converges John’s passions of cars, conversation, and entertainment,” said Brian Tannenbaum, Head of Originals, Roku Media. “John infuses extraordinary energy into every conversation he has, giving viewers an under-the-hood look into the lives of each guest.”

“We’ve always felt that John’s quick wit, sincere curiosity, and charm would make him a terrific host for a talk format, and ‘What Drives You‘ is the perfect vehicle (sorry) to showcase his talent and genuine obsession with all things automotive,” said Leftfield Pictures President Shawn Witt. “We’re stoked to bring this series to life with him and our partners at Roku.”

“What Drives You” is produced by ITV America’s Leftfield Pictures. David George, Shawn Witt, Sean Moran, Jay Bienstock, John Cena, and Dan Baime are the series’ executive producers. Sean Boyle oversees the series on behalf of Roku Originals.

ITV America’s Leftfield Pictures produces an array of projects for broadcast, cable, and streaming platforms. Helmed by Witt, Leftfield’s many series include Roku’s “Reptile Royalty,” The HISTORY® Channel’s “Alone,” “Pawn Stars,” “Counting Cars” and “Forged in Fire,” Hulu’s “Chefs vs. Wild” and more.

*By hours streamed (Hypothesis Group: December 2022)