PUNISHER Showrunner Steve Lightfoot Explains Why He Likes Having Thirteen Episodes Instead Of Ten
One common complaint leveled at Marvel's Netflix series has been their 13-episode seasons, and now the Punisher's Steve Lightfoot explains why he prefers this to the alternative of having just 10 episodes.
Fans have certainly critiqued Marvel’s Netflix series for a variety of reasons, but one frequent complaint has had to do with the 13-episode seasons most of the shows have, something many feel negatively affects the stories they are telling.
However, during a recent chat with Collider, Punisher showrunner Steve Lightfoot addressed the tradition of having thirteen episodes and the request from some fans to reduce the episode count to ten a season.
"It’s an interesting thing, that. People have always said to me, ‘Do you wish you’d have had 10?’ and then I say, ‘Well then you would’ve had less story.’" Lightfoot then went on to say he intended Punisher to have a slower pace and utilize every episode. "I always wanted it to be a slow burn show. I always felt like we had the right amount for 13, and you’ve gotta have enough story for that but I like how slow burn and character-driven the shows are.”
The showrunner’s comment about the importance of making sure you have a story that works for a thirteen-episode season is certainly a valid one. After all, The Defenders had only had eight episodes but it still had elements that turned some fans off to the show.
Anyway, what do you folks make of these comments? Do you like that the majority of the Marvel series have thirteen episodes? Make sure to comment below.