Actor Jon Bernthal, best known for his role on The Walking Dead, is stepping into the Marvel universe with a highly anticipated debut as Frank Castle, a.k.a. The Punisher, in Season 2 of Daredevil. With expectations running high for such an iconic character, Bernthal has shared his thoughts on taking on the role — and the responsibility that comes with it.
Speaking with Entertainment Weekly at New York Comic Con, Bernthal acknowledged the weight of portraying a character who has long resonated with fans across both pop culture and real life. “It’s an iconic character who people care an enormous amount about,” he said.
Bernthal emphasized that The Punisher holds deep meaning for many in the military and law enforcement communities. “People in law enforcement and the military — this is a character who resonates really strongly [to them]. That’s no-nonsense to me,” he explained. “I know a lot of people really want us to get this right, and all I can say is the people around me are really wonderful, and I’m just trying to keep up with them.”
It’s clear Bernthal is fully aware of the stakes. The Punisher is one of Marvel’s most intense and morally complex anti-heroes — and getting him right, especially in a grounded series like Daredevil, is no small task. Fortunately, the actor expressed nothing but admiration for the creative team behind the series.
“The level of talent from the creators and the cast and the unbelievable crew, it’s such an honor to be a part of,” Bernthal said. “They set the bar so enormously high. It’s the first time for me sort of coming onto something that’s so wonderful. I’ve always been there from the beginning and been a part of that culture from the beginning. It’s an honor and a responsibility, and the pressure is on. These guys are no nonsense and they’re really, really wonderful at what they do.”
With the second season of Daredevil introducing Frank Castle into the Marvel Cinematic Universe, fans are eager to see how the character’s gritty brand of justice will fit into the already intense world of Hell’s Kitchen. Based on Bernthal’s dedication and passion for the role, The Punisher appears to be in good hands.