Jon Bernthal’s Punisher Returns in Spider-Man: Brand New Day with a Major First for the MCU

Jon Bernthal’s Punisher Takes a New Direction

Jon Bernthal has played Frank Castle in the Marvel Cinematic Universe for almost a decade, and his return in Daredevil: Born Again has already raised excitement among fans. The character is now heading into a new chapter in Spider-Man: Brand New Day, which arrives in 2026. Reports confirmed in June 2025 that Bernthal will reprise his role in the upcoming Marvel Studios and Sony Pictures collaboration.

This appearance marks a huge shift for the character. Spider-Man: Brand New Day is expected to be rated PG-13, which means it will be the first MCU project to feature the Punisher without an R rating. It is also the first major Marvel film in history to include the Punisher in a PG-13 setting. Until now, every solo Punisher movie has been R rated, including the 1989 Dolph Lundgren version, Thomas Jane’s 2004 film, and Ray Stevenson’s Punisher: War Zone in 2008.

What to Expect from Punisher in Spider-Man: Brand New Day

Jon Bernthal’s Frank Castle is one of the most violent and uncompromising antiheroes in the MCU. His previous appearances have shown a character who never hesitates to eliminate threats, often resulting in intense bloodshed. Because Spider-Man: Brand New Day follows a PG-13 rating, the tone of the Punisher will shift significantly. The core of the character may remain the same, but viewers can expect a more controlled style that fits within the film’s rating.

Marvel and Sony are keeping his storyline under wraps, but fans believe his presence will deeply affect Spider-Man’s journey. As Peter Parker moves into adulthood and leaves his high school years behind, the Punisher may act as a harsh reminder of how dangerous the world can become. Their interactions could play a key role in shaping Spider-Man’s growth as a street level hero.

A New Phase for Spider-Man

Spider-Man: Brand New Day is the fourth solo MCU Spider-Man film. The movie stars Tom Holland, Zendaya, Jacob Batalon, Mark Ruffalo, Michael Mando, and Jon Bernthal. The story focuses on Peter rebuilding his life in a world that no longer knows who he is. With the Punisher entering this grounded setting, the film is expected to explore darker themes while staying within a PG-13 framework.

Spider-Man: Brand New Day releases in theaters on July 31, 2026.