After the Punisher (who was still Frank Castle until the finale) proved to be the best thing about Daredevil's second season, it was only natural for Netflix to announce a spin-off. Jon Bernthal absolutely killed it in the role, so he will become the anti-hero yet again, most likely in 2018.
The most recent rumor concerning the series is that Netflix is searching for an actor for the role of Microchip. Given the history this supporting character has in the comics with the Punisher, it was only natural for such a rumor to appear.
Today brings yet another report. However, it isn't about any kind of supporting character; it concerns one of the villains of the new Punisher TV series. According to TV Line, Ben Barnes has been cast into a villainous role. The reports also say that the actor, known for portraying Prince Caspian in the Narnia Chronicles, will bring Bobby Saint to life in The Punisher series.
Ben Barnes in Dorian Gray (Viki Secrets)
While the rumor hasn't been confirmed just yet, more and more websites are picking it up, suggesting that the actor has indeed grabbed the role. However, as far as the Bobby Saint rumor is concerned, there is no telling if it is true or not.
If Bobby Saint will indeed be in the series, it will be the second time he has appeared in movies of any kind. Previously, he was portrayed by James Carpinello in the Thomas Jane version of the Punisher. Anyway, we wouldn't bet on him being the villain of the Netflix series.
As said, the series is most likely to hit in 2018. However, Netflix may make a change and release The Punisher in 2017 as the third MCU TV show of the year, after Iron Fist and The Defenders. Since more and more audition videos have begun to surface, it is plausible that production might begin by the end of the year.
Jon Bernthal in Daredevil (Den of Geek)
