Jon Bernthal is having a banner year in 2026, and his latest project—a return to the role that made him a fan favorite—is finally here. The Punisher: One Last Kill, a Special Presentation starring Bernthal as Frank Castle, drops on Disney+ tonight at 9 PM EST. And just hours before its release, the official runtime has been confirmed: 44 minutes (excluding credits).
While some fans might have hoped for a longer outing, the brisk runtime suggests a tight, action-packed story that doesn't waste a second. Bernthal co-wrote the special with director Reinaldo Marcus Green, and early buzz indicates it will serve as a crucial bridge between Daredevil: Born Again Season 2 and Spider-Man: Brand New Day—two street-level Marvel stories set in New York City.
Bernthal's Busy 2026
Before picking up the skull-emblazoned vest again, Bernthal already made waves this year with Gary, a surprise The Bear prequel episode that dropped on Hulu with zero promotion. Co-starring Ebon Moss-Bachrach, Gary quickly dominated streaming charts and reminded everyone why Bernthal is one of the most versatile actors working today. The prequel's success only added to the anticipation for his Punisher return.
Later this summer, Bernthal will appear in two massive blockbusters: Christopher Nolan's The Odyssey and Spider-Man: Brand New Day, both co-starring Tom Holland. He also starred in the Netflix hit His & Hers alongside Tessa Thompson. With all that on his plate, it's no wonder fans were disappointed when Frank Castle didn't show up in the second season of Daredevil: Born Again. But as it turns out, his absence was a deliberate setup for this standalone special.
What to Expect from 'One Last Kill'
Plot details remain under wraps, but the special is expected to explore Frank Castle's mindset after the events of Daredevil: Born Again Season 2. Given the 44-minute runtime, expect a lean, mean narrative that focuses on action and character rather than sprawling subplots. Some have argued that skipping the Punisher in the season finale was a smart move, allowing this special to stand on its own.
One question on many minds: Will Charlie Cox's Daredevil appear? According to sources, Matt Murdock is currently in jail following the events of Daredevil: Born Again Season 2, and he's not expected to be part of One Last Kill. However, the Spider-Man: Brand New Day trailer shows Spider-Man fighting The Hand in a prison—possibly the same one where Daredevil is being held. After Cox's cameo in Spider-Man: No Way Home, a future crossover can't be ruled out.
Streaming Tonight
The Punisher: One Last Kill begins streaming on Disney+ tonight at 9 PM EST. Whether you're a die-hard Punisher fan or just catching up on the Marvel street-level saga, this special promises to deliver the grit and intensity that Bernthal brings to the role. Stay tuned for more updates as the special drops.
