The Marvel Cinematic Universe is an ever expanding place. In addition to the bevy of films still slated to release before MCU's Phase Three has completed, there are also a bunch of TV shows, the best of which are produced by Netflix. Marvel's partnership with the streaming service has already produced great work with Daredevil and Jessica Jones, and the early reviews for Luke Cage are very positive as well. And with another two shows already in the works, it was a big surprise when Netflix revealed that Jon Bernthal's Punisher would be receiving his very own spinoff. But now the question is: will he appear in other series in the universe? Signs point to yes.
While Netflix and Marvel have yet to announce Jon Bernthal's involvement in any of their other comic book series, the actor's schedule may speak volumes. The Walking Dead and Daredevil actor was originally set to be at New York Comic-Con for the entirety of its proceedings in a few weeks, but now it appears that his schedule at Netflix is going to prevent him from appearing as much as originally planned. Comic-Con made this announcement over their official Twitter, check it out.
While this announcement might not be mind-blowing at first glance, it's important to note the timeline of Netflix's Marvel schedule. Considering what is set to be filmed and released next, it may hint at The Punisher's appearance on those particular projects. Let's break down all the possibilities.
Obviously, the most exciting idea is that Punisher will be appearing in one of the upcoming series, besides his own spinoff. Just a month ago, Netflix announced the order at which the Marvel shows will be released to the public, and the Punisher spinoff was supposed to be dead last after the Defenders miniseries and possibly the new seasons of Jessica Jones and Daredevil. So if Jon Bernthal is shooting something for Netflix, then we can assume he may just show up in either Iron Fist or Defenders. Do you hear that? It's the sound of Daredevil fans everywhere rejoicing.
Then again, Netflix could be pulling a fast one on us. The streaming service has been known to keep things very tight-lipped and surprise their subscribers by releasing certain projects out of nowhere. So it is entirely possible that plans have changed, and perhaps Jon Bernthal is filming the Punisher spinoff earlier than any of us imagined. Considering how popular his adaptation of Frank Castle was in Daredevil's second season, I wouldn't be surprised if Netflix moved ahead production to satisfy the fans who are begging for his speedy return to the MCU.
Personally, I'm hoping that Jon Bernthal is working on a role in The Defenders. While it would be nice to see him in Iron Fist, I'm not sure it would totally make sense. But when the shit hits the fan in New York and the four heroes assemble to take care of business, they may just want some big guns on their side. Literally.
