Jon Bernthal's Punisher joins Tom Holland in 'Spider-Man: Brand New Day'
Jon Bernthal is officially bringing Frank Castle, also known as the Punisher, to the Marvel Cinematic Universe’s big screen. The fan-favorite antihero will appear alongside Tom Holland in Spider-Man: Brand New Day, directed by Destin Daniel Cretton (Shang-Chi and the Legend of the Ten Rings). Slated for a July 31, 2026 release, the film marks a bold new direction for the Spider-Man franchise—and possibly for the MCU itself.
Jon Bernthal’s Punisher joins Tom Holland in Spider-Man: Brand New Day. Grit meets webs in Marvel’s bold 2026 movie.
Giovanni Rufino/Marvel/Disney+
Bernthal’s Punisher, first introduced in Netflix’s Daredevil before headlining his own gritty Marvel series, is known for his street-level justice, tactical expertise, and R-rated intensity. His inclusion in a mainline Spider-Man movie signals a tonal shift that could bring a more grounded, emotionally charged narrative to the beloved superhero saga.
While plot details remain tightly under wraps, sources confirm that Zendaya and Jacob Batalon will reprise their roles as MJ and Ned, though the extent of their involvement is unknown. New to the cast is Stranger Things breakout Sadie Sink, whose role is also being kept secret.
This next chapter follows the aftermath of Spider-Man: No Way Home, where the world’s memory of Peter Parker was erased. That event opens the door for new alliances—and dangerous new enemies. Industry speculation points to multiple villains, ranging from classic crime bosses to alien threats and even rumored appearances by different versions of the Hulk.
Bringing the Punisher into the fold adds a fascinating dynamic. Known in Marvel Comics for clashing with Spider-Man over their differing ideologies, Castle’s methods stand in stark contrast to Peter Parker’s moral code. This could set up compelling narrative and emotional conflict.
Bernthal is deeply invested in the character, having demanded that Frank Castle retain his violent, mature edge for Daredevil: Born Again. That requirement raises questions about how Marvel will adapt the Punisher's darker tone for the generally family-friendly Spider-Man universe.
Beyond Spider-Man: Brand New Day, Bernthal is set to return in Daredevil: Born Again Season 2 and is currently developing a Punisher solo film for Disney+, which he is also co-writing. His recent film credits include The Accountant 2 alongside Ben Affleck and The Amateur with Rami Malek.
Bernthal and Holland’s shared history adds an extra layer of chemistry to this new project. The pair were filming Pilgrimage in 2017 while preparing their Marvel auditions, even helping each other with tapes that would go on to change their careers.
