(Image credit: Netflix)
Warning: This article contains spoilers for Daredevil: Born Again episode 4. In an unexpected twist, the latest installment of Daredevil: Born Again introduced Jon Bernthal’s Punisher into the Marvel Cinematic Universe for the first time. But fans almost missed this thrilling entry because Bernthal initially walked away from the project.
In a revealing conversation with Entertainment Weekly, Bernthal shared, “Ultimately, I didn’t see it. I didn’t see the version of Frank, and what they wanted from Frank [didn’t] really make sense to me and I thought would not appeal to the fans and wouldn’t be congruent.” His concerns were clear, as he stated, “It was not something I was really interested in doing. So we had to walk away.”
The series underwent significant changes during the Hollywood strikes, pausing filming and allowing producer Dario Scardapane to step in as showrunner. Scardapane’s history with Bernthal on The Punisher TV show played a crucial role in revitalizing Bernthal’s interest in returning to the role.
“They really brought me into the conversation,” Bernthal acknowledged about Scardapane and Marvel. “We really got specific about where Frank is psychologically, where Frank’s at physically.” The collaboration evidently offered a direction that resonated with the actor’s vision for the character.
The latest episode offers a poignant glimpse of Frank Castle, reconnecting with Matt Murdock during a short yet emotionally charged scene. Although brief, this encounter includes some of the series’ most touching dialogue to date. Co-star Charlie Cox has mentioned that Bernthal frequently improvised his lines, sometimes catching even Cox himself by surprise.
Daredevil: Born Again is currently available on Disney Plus, releasing new episodes weekly. For further insights, explore our comprehensive release schedule and in-depth season 1 review. Stay updated with the latest in movie news, features, and reviews.