Dolph Lungdren previously played The Punisher in 1989, while Thomas Jane tried a more realistic version in 2004.
There were, in fact, multiple previous attempts to kick-off a Punisher eature film franchise before Bernthal took on the role as part of the Marvel Cinematic Universe.
The new Punisher series is currently in production, with such actors as Daredevil’s Deborah Ann Woll confirmed to be part of its cast.
But while it was no surprise that Netflix quickly ordered a solo series for the character, many took note that The Punisher was already one of the most frequently-adapted characters in the entire Marvel canon.