It was announced today that Marvel and Netflix have struck a deal to produce an original series starring The Punisher. Noted for his standout performance on Marvel’s Daredevil, Jon Bernthal has been tapped to reprise his role as Frank Castle, the mercenary bad boy. Steve Lightfoot (Hannibal) will serve as the showrunner. Upon the announcement, Lightfoot had this to say regarding the series and its star,
“For me, the complexity and unpredictability of Frank Castle make him an incredibly compelling character and I couldn’t be more excited to dive into his world,” said Executive Producer and Showrunner, Steve Lightfoot. “After watching Jon’s performance in Marvel’s Daredevil I could not be more excited to be working with him to further develop and progress the story of this anti-hero in a show of his own.”
Both Marvel and Netflix are excited to bring this series to light after the incredible job Bernthal did in his role.
“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, said Executive Producer/Head of Marvel Television, Jeph Loeb, in Marvel’s official statement. “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, and we are looking forward to seeing more of him in this role under the vision of Steve Lightfoot,” said Cindy Holland, Netflix Vice President of Original Content.
With two characters combining for three seasons in Daredevil and Jessica Jones, and with three other series forthcoming (Luke Cage, Iron Fist, and The Defenders), the partnership between companies, along with the success of their shows, looks to be one of longevity. The Punisher will remain in Hell’s Kitchen deliver his brand of justice. No word as to when we might expect to see this new series, but with three other projects in the works, and a possible season two for Jessica Jones, it’s unlikely we will be watching Frank Castle until 2018 at the earliest. Unless due to demand and fan interest they fast track the series.
Netflix posted a teaser image on Twitter simply saying, “Coming soon.”
