Jon Bernthal set to return in new Disney+ ‘The Punisher’ solo special
If you’ve been feeling overwhelmed with all the new Marvel movies and TV shows that have come out since “Avengers: Endgame,” you’re not alone. But let’s take a trip down memory lane to 2015 when Netflix introduced its own Marvel universe with shows like “Daredevil,” “Jessica Jones,” “Luke Cage,” and “Iron Fist.” That’s where we first met Jon Bernthal as “The Punisher,” and fans loved him so much that he got his own series.
When Netflix’s rights to these characters expired, they all made their way to Disney+, but not much happened with them… until now. Disney is reviving some of these beloved characters, starting with “Daredevil: Born Again,” premiering on March 4, 2025. And guess what? Jon Bernthal will be reprising his role as the Punisher in this series and is even writing a standalone special for the character.
In case you’re wondering what makes Bernthal’s Punisher so captivating, check out his performance in the clip below (fair warning: there’s some strong language). The Punisher, aka Frank Castle, is a former Marine Corps sniper and Iraq War veteran seeking revenge for his family’s murder. Bernthal’s portrayal of Castle is intense, gritty, and just plain awesome.
We first saw Bernthal as the Punisher in the second season of “Daredevil” back in 2016, and by 2017, he had his own series that ran for two seasons. The Netflix shows were all part of the Marvel Cinematic Universe, but it wasn’t clear if they truly connected until Charlie Cox’s Daredevil made appearances in other MCU projects like “Spider-Man: No Way Home” and “She-Hulk: Attorney at Law.”
The Punisher character has been brought to life by other actors in the past, but Bernthal’s take on the role is something special. Originally hesitant to play the Punisher, Bernthal was drawn to the character’s depth and complexity. Frank Castle represents a dark, tormented side of justice that resonates with many viewers.
Created in 1974, the Punisher has been an iconic figure in American pop culture, reflecting society’s relationship with the military. Through the years, the character has evolved to stay relevant, drawing both military and civilian fans with his sense of duty and mission-driven approach.
Bernthal is teaming up with director Reinaldo Marcus Green for the upcoming Punisher special, set to debut in 2026. So, get ready to see more of Jon Bernthal’s Punisher back in action.
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