Jon Bernthal is stepping back into the role of Frank Castle, and he’s making it clear—this isn’t going to be a watered-down version of the Punisher. The actor, who originally portrayed the character in Netflix’s Daredevil and later led two seasons of The Punisher, is bringing Castle back for the newly rebooted Daredevil: Born Again on Disney+. But beyond that, a standalone Punisher special is officially in the works, with Bernthal not only starring but co-writing alongside Reinaldo Marcus Green, who is also set to direct.
At the SXSW premiere of The Accountant 2, Bernthal shared his vision for the upcoming special, promising fans a story that stays true to Frank Castle’s brutal nature. “I care very deeply about Frank. I’m really grateful that I’m getting the opportunity to tell the story I think the fans deserve,” he told The Hollywood Reporter. “We’re giving it our all. We’re not going to turn our back on the audience—it’s not going to be easy, it’s not going to be light, and I think it’s the version that this character deserves.”
‘It Will Not Be Punisher-Lite’
Since Marvel Studios reclaimed its Netflix characters, there has been speculation over whether the more violent and mature tones of Daredevil and The Punisher would survive under Disney’s umbrella. Bernthal’s comments suggest that the Punisher special will remain true to the character’s dark origins.
“It’s going to be dark,” he confirmed. “Frank has no interest in breaking out of the darkness. It’s not going to be easy. If that’s the Netflix tone, then that’s what it’s going to be. It will not be Punisher-lite, I promise you that.”
The standalone special is slated for release in 2026, alongside Daredevil: Born Again Season 2.
Bernthal’s Other Projects: ‘The Accountant 2’
While excitement builds for his return as the Punisher, Bernthal is currently focused on The Accountant 2, the sequel to the 2016 thriller starring Ben Affleck as a math genius with deadly combat skills. Bernthal plays Affleck’s brother, Brax, a role that has been in demand among fans since the first film’s release.
Affleck, who reprises his role, acknowledged the film’s cult following. “It wasn’t a billion-dollar movie or anything, but people kept finding it, and streaming gave it a second life,” Affleck said. “I think we’ve benefitted from the intervening years.”
With The Accountant 2 hitting theaters soon and the Punisher special on the horizon, Bernthal’s return to action-heavy roles is in full swing. Fans of Frank Castle will have to wait until 2026 for the next chapter, but if Bernthal’s words hold true, it will be well worth it.
Sources: THR
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