Jon Bernthal’s Frank Castle, recognized as the Punisher, will make his cinematic debut in *Spider-Man: Brand New Day*, scheduled for release in 2026.
Helmed by Destin Daniel Cretton (*Shang-Chi and the Legend of the Ten Rings*) and featuring Tom Holland, *Spider-Man: Brand New Day* signifies the comeback of Peter Parker/Spider-Man after the crucial conclusion of *Spider-Man: No Way Home*. In that installment, Doctor Strange (Benedict Cumberbatch) cast a spell that wiped Peter Parker’s identity from the memories of all, effectively rebooting the MCU’s *Spider-Man* storyline.
*Spider-Man: Brand New Day* is not the sole MCU project linked to Bernthal’s Punisher, who initially appeared in Netflix’s *Daredevil* prior to headlining *The Punisher*. He also featured in Season 1 of *Daredevil: Born Again* and is set to return for Season 2. Bernthal has co-penned the forthcoming *Punisher* Special Presentation with co-writer and director Reinaldo Marcus Green.
The results of the Special Presentation and *Daredevil: Born Again* Season 2 may provide clues regarding the Punisher’s involvement in *Spider-Man: Brand New Day*, though plot specifics for Spidey’s upcoming film remain under wraps. Punisher’s participation could suggest a more intense, street-focused narrative for Peter, differing from the multiversal and cosmic trials he encountered in films like *Avengers: Infinity War* and *Spider-Man: No Way Home*.
Alongside Holland and Bernthal, *Spider-Man: Brand New Day* will also feature Zendaya and Jacob Batalon, reprising their characters as MJ and Ned. Will they remember Peter or find a new way to connect with him? Moreover, *Stranger Things* star Sadie Sink joins the cast in a role that has not been disclosed.
*Spider-Man: Brand New Day* will be released in theaters on July 31, 2026.