'The Punisher' News: Marvel Orders Spinoff Starring Jon Bernthal
The introduction of the iconic Marvel antihero Frank Castle/The Punisher, played by "The Walking Dead" alum Jon Bernthal, was considered by many to be one of the best things about the second season of Netflix's "Daredevil."
Now, after months of speculation, Marvel has finally confirmed that it has ordered a spinoff about the vengeful military vet, with Bernthal reprising his role as the titular mercenary. "Hannibal" writer and executive producer Steve Lightfoot will serve as showrunner and executive producer and will write the first two episodes of the upcoming series.
"We want to thank the fans who are clamoring for more of Jon's stunning and powerful performance as Frank Castle from 'Marvel's Daredevil,'" Marvel Television Head/Executive Producer Jeph Loeb said in a statement about the upcoming addition to the Marvel Television line-up. "Now combined with showrunner Steve Lightfoot's compelling writing, we're thrilled to bring 'Marvel's The Punisher' to Netflix."
"Jon hooked our global audience with his performance as Frank Castle from the moment he stepped on screen in 'Marvel's Daredevil,' Netflix Vice President of Original Content Cindy Holland said, "and we are looking forward to seeing more of him in this role under the vision of Steve Lightfoot."
"The Punisher" will be the sixth series ordered (to date) as part of the deal struck between Marvel Television and Netflix. The first five are "Jessica Jones," "Daredevil," "Luke Cage," "Iron Fist," and "The Defenders," the ensemble miniseries which will feature the first four Marvel/Netflix superheroes. Marvel has yet to confirm if The Punisher will also appear in "The Defenders."
Bernthal's turn as The Punisher is the fourth live action rendition of the Marvel Comics character. He was previously portrayed by Dolph Lundgren in "The Punisher" (1989), by Thomas Jane in the 2004 reboot, and by Ray Stevenson in "Punisher: War Zone" (2008).
Marvel has yet to announce the exact air date of "The Punisher."
