Marvel Studios has finished filming The Punisher Special Presentation after an intense 12-day shoot in New York, with Jon Bernthal delivering a touching speech to thank the cast and crew. The rapid production schedule tested the team’s limits, but Bernthal praised their commitment in bringing the project to completion under such pressure. This marks Bernthal’s return as Frank Castle, reprising his role following Daredevil: Born Again.
Fast-Paced Schedule and Upcoming Appearances
Following the wrap, Bernthal is preparing to head to London this week to film additional scenes as Frank Castle for Spider-Man: Brand New Day. This tight timeline highlights the ambitious nature of his Marvel Marvel Special commitments and the fast turnaround required.
Hints of Iconic Villain and Creative Team Details
Although Marvel has remained silent on plot specifics, early set images suggest the presence of villain Isabella Carmela Magdalena Gnucci—known as Ma Gnucci—a notorious mob matriarch from Garth Ennis’ Marvel Knights comics and one of Castle’s key adversaries. Rumors link actress Judith Light to the role, but no official confirmation has been provided. Jon Bernthal co-wrote the script alongside director Reinaldo Marcus Green, who also helms the Special.
Marvel Leadership on Bernthal and the Special’s Story
Brad Winderbaum, Marvel’s Head of Streaming, described the story as
“a shotgun blast of a story, but also has all the pathos and emotion that you want out of a Frank Castle story.”
He shared how the idea for this standalone Special developed during the filming of Daredevil: Born Again, when Castle and Daredevil teamed up against Fisk’s anti-vigilante task force.
Discussing Bernthal’s involvement, Winderbaum stated,
“Bernthal is a generational actor. He’s incredible what he brings to all the roles he plays, but particularly Frank Castle. And he’s a great writer. He knows the character inside and out….”
He added,
“Also, I love Punisher, but I love Jon’s Punisher in particular. The idea that he’s in the MCU and can bring that to the greater universe, especially the more grounded street-level stuff, is a huge opportunity and, as a fan, the greatest thing ever.”
—Brad Winderbaum, Marvel’s Head of Streaming
Looking Ahead to The Punisher’s MCU Return
No release date has been announced yet for The Punisher Special Presentation, but with filming complete and excitement rapidly rising, fans can anticipate Frank Castle’s official return to the Marvel Cinematic Universe in the near future. Bernthal’s dedication and the creative team’s efforts suggest a gripping story that captures the full intensity of the Punisher character while expanding his role within the MCU’s street-level stories.
