Warning! This article contains major SPOILERS for Daredevil: Born Again Episode 8.
As Daredevil: Born Again inches closer to its season finale, fans are buzzing about the possible introduction of a formidable adversary for The Punisher in his forthcoming MCU special. With Jon Bernthal’s Frank Castle expected to join forces with Matt Murdock in the climactic episode, there’s a compelling argument that this finale will pave the way for new challenges in the next chapter of The Punisher’s story.
In early 2025, just before Daredevil: Born Again premiered, Marvel announced that The Punisher is set to receive his own MCU Special Presentation, which could mirror the approach taken with the 2024 Echo series. Notably, Bernthal will also co-write this special, suggesting a seamless continuity from his character’s experiences in the first season of Daredevil: Born Again. This indicates an intriguing shift for Frank Castle, who may soon face a new nemesis following the season finale.
Spotlight on Cole North in Daredevil: Born Again
Understanding Cole North’s Marvel Comics Background
Introduced by Mayor Fisk to tackle the serial killer known as Muse in Episode 6, the Anti-Vigilante Task Force (AVTF) is now fully operational. This unit, which operates under Fisk’s jurisdiction, consists of corrupt NYPD officers who idolize Frank Castle’s Punisher, allowing them to employ extreme measures in their pursuit of “justice.” Many in the force have appropriated the Punisher’s iconic skull logo, further emphasizing their readiness to act ruthlessly.
Among the standout members of the AVTF is Detective Cole North (played by Jeremy Isaiah Earl). Featured alongside Mayor Fisk at the Black and White Ball in Episode 8, North was miscredited by Fisk for Muse’s murder in Episode 7. This narrative aligns with North’s comic book origins as a detective who relentlessly pursued vigilantes, complicating the lives of both Daredevil and Spider-Man, while also crossing paths with The Punisher.
The Suspicion Around Cole North and White Tiger
Tracking Vigilantes Before the Task Force
Curiously, throughout the series, Cole North has consistently displayed a tattoo of the Punisher logo, a detail that feels deliberate. The ambiguity surrounding the identity of White Tiger’s killer, hinted to be a Punisher impostor, adds to the intrigue. My theory is that Cole North is the one who ambushed Hector Ayala, leaving a signature Punisher mark on the crime.
The series raises an interesting question: Was Mayor Fisk behind North’s actions, or did he act independently? This revelation could position North directly against both Frank Castle and Daredevil if he is indeed revealed as White Tiger’s killer. Frank Castle’s disdain for “fake fanboys,”as expressed in Episode 4, only heightens the stakes.
Speculation: Cole North as a Key Antagonist in The Punisher’s Spin-off
Mayor Fisk’s Desire to Hunt Down Frank Castle
As we approach the finale, I anticipate Cole North’s potential role in the climactic events of Daredevil: Born Again. The AVTF will likely compete with Daredevil (and presumably Punisher) to apprehend Bullseye. Should North survive this encounter, I foresee Fisk tasking him with the mission to track down Frank Castle post-season, setting a strong foundation for the upcoming Punisher Special Presentation. This scenario would echo how Fisk previously utilized North to apprehend various vigilantes across New York.
There’s considerable excitement surrounding the idea of The Punisher encountering a usurper while fighting to reclaim his identity, bringing an engaging dynamic to the MCU.
The finale of Daredevil: Born Again will debut on April 15th on Disney+, while The Punisher special is set to be released in 2026.