Netflix ‘Punisher’ Spinoff Adds Ben Barnes in Villainous Role

The Punisher remains the most elusive of all Marvel’s Netflix series, as-yet unscheduled and unconfirmed to take any part in The Defenders crossover. Still, Frank Castle’s solo series may yet be moving forward, casting Chronicles of Narnia alum Ben Barnes a mysterious role.

TVLine broke word of the upcoming Westworld star’s casting, albeit without any confirmed details of the series regular role. One rumor put forth, however, suggests Barnes could be playing antagonist and “corrupt crime prodigy” Bobby Saint.

Most recently, rumors suggested the Daredevil spinoff had begun releasing audition sides for the role of “Dennis Landstrom,” believed to be a stand-in for David Lieberman, known in the comics as “Microchip” or “Micro.” Other reports have claimed a possible 2017 release date for The Punisher, though 2018 (at the earliest) is significantly more likely. Marvel bosses have also kept coy about Frank Castle appearing in The Defenders.

It’s early days yet for the Jon Bernthal series, itself showrun by Hannibal writer Steve Lightfoot, but how should we hope The Punisher shapes up?

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