‘Punisher’ TV Show Coming To Netflix Starring Jon Bernthal; Will The Character Spark Controversy?

Marvel fans everywhere are rejoicing as yet another character from the famed comic book universe will join the cadre of Netflix series being produced in the studio’s connected world. After making a stellar appearance on Season 2 of “Daredevil” the popular streaming service is officially moving forward with a spinoff series based on “The Punisher.”

Actor Jon Bernthal brought Frank Castle, the army veteran turned anti-hero, to life on “Daredevil.” Given the actor’s performance and the popularity of the “Punisher” comic books, TV Line previously reported that negotiations were happening to develop a standalone series for the character.

Now, in the wake of “Daredevil” Season 2, and with all eyes looking ahead to “Luke Cage,” Netflix has announced that “The Punisher” will be the sixth in its Netflix TV series venture, which already includes “Jessica Jones,” “Iron Fist,” the aforementioned “Luke Cage” and “Daredevil” as well as a connected “Defenders” miniseries.

According to Entertainment Weekly, writer and executive producer Steve Lightfoot, previously of “Hannibal” and “Casualty,” will serve as showrunner. Sadly, there’s no word on when The Punisher series will air or if Frank Castle will make an appearance in the upcoming “Defenders” team up. The announcement comes as fantastic news to fans of the character’s written source material. Despite three attempts at feature films, no one was able to crack the violence and intensity of the character quite like the episodic Netflix format.

Given the character's anti-hero status, his inclusion in the larger Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU) could prove as controversial as his comic books. What makes Frank Castle different from the likes of Daredevil (Charlie Cox) or Captain America (Chris Evans) is the fact that he isn’t shy about killing the criminals that cross his path, which heroes typically don't do. This worked well when he was acting as a foil to a general good guy, Daredevil, but given his own series, his execution-style of justice might seem a tad glorified for an MCU character.

Only time will tell if Lightfoot will have to pull any punches with The Punisher’s continued adventures. Sadly, other than the fact that the show is coming to Netflix, virtually nothing is known about the show in terms of plot, release date, tone or connectivity.

Are you excited for a standalone “Punisher” show? Comment below or tweet your thoughts to @TylerMcCarthy.