It's been a while since we've seen Frank Castle stalk the pages of Marvel Comics, but the ultra-violent vigilante is set to return for a new 13-issue, prestige format limited series next March, and it sounds like writer Jason Aaron has some big changes in store for The Punisher.
Punisher, which will feature artwork from Jesús Saiz and Paul Azaceta, is described as "the definitive culmination of Frank Castle’s journey in the Marvel Universe to date, building on his past to reveal his inescapable future." The story will feature flashbacks to Castle's tortured past, while charting his journey in the present as the new leader of The Hand!
Yes, in a major status quo shift for the character, Castle will serve as "The Beast" of the notorious group of ninja assassins.
“After writing the Punisher over the years, I’ve always been fascinated by the character of Frank Castle. What moments made him the Punisher, even before that fateful day in the park? And how far will he go to win the war that has consumed his life? Spoiler: as far as it damn well takes,” Aaron tells Marvel.com. “This story is the destined next step in the dark and tragic evolution of Frank Castle, from troubled kid to heroic soldier to revenge-driven vigilante…to the duly anointed King of Killers. Believe me when I say, I am as excited about this story as anything I’ve ever written for Marvel.”
Check out a preview of issue #1 and a first look at Castle's new costume below.