Up: Bernthal owns the role

Castle was just a secondary character in Daredevil,  so there was some doubt that he’d be able to carry his own solo series. His interactions with the characters in Daredevil guaranteed his popularity, but the announcement that Karen Page was the only one who would cameo in The Punisher only served to reinforce those doubts.

But Bernthal completely owns the role, and has succeeded in adding to its depth. Some of the flashbacks might not have worked, destroying the tension of certain scenes, but Bernthal made the most of it and elevated the character. Revenge and violence flow through Castle's veins, but the actor also managed to show his character’s vulnerability.

But this really isn’t all that surprising. Bernthal has said that he understands where Castle comes from and agrees with his resolve.