The Punisher: Ben Barnes Defends Jigsaw's New Look

Actor Ben Barnes took to Twitter to defend the approach to Jigsaw fans will see in season 2 of Daredevil. Though many felt the season didn't quite live up to the first, Bernthal's portrayal was universally praised. As a result, Netflix commissioned a spin-off show based around the character. The first season debuted in 2017, to similar acclaim and a sophomore outing was rapidly greenlit.

Season 1 concluded with Frank finally punishing those responsible for the murder of his family, the last of whom was Billy Russo himself. Although Billy didn't have a direct hand in the slaughter, Frank discovered he had known about it and allowed it to happen for his own ends. The pair ultimately clashed on the infamous carousel where Frank's family had been gunned down. It made for a fitting place of judgment. Rather than killing his former friend, Frank opted to brutally disfigure Billy's face on broken mirrors - as a permanent reminder of his betrayal. Billy was last seen in a coma as the show concluded - wrapped in bandages and reportedly brain-damaged. Confirmed by unfavorably comparing it to Punisher: War Zone's version.

Posting on his personal Twitter page, Barnes attempted to defend the aesthetic choice. Sharing a link to a National Geographic article called 'Healing Soldiers', the actor revealed that the article informed some of the decisions, most notably the mask Billy opts to wear. Barnes concluded by adding that "wounds are most often not visible on the outside". The article delves into effects that war and brain injuries can have on soldiers, as well as how the painting of masks can help in the healing process.

in mind, if not in name and appearance.

Barnes isn't the only ones to return for season 2. Amber Rose Revah and Jason R. Moore will also be back as Dinah Madani and Curtis Hoyle, respectively, both equally betrayed by Billy. Deborah Ann Woll will also reprise her role of Karen Page. They will be ed by new cast-, including Giorgia Whigham as runaway teenager Amy Bendix and despite cast-ed petitions, fans may at least get to see some kind of conclusion.

Although fans will no doubt be disappointed that the character won't be as comics-accurate as some recent fan-art, the writers and Barnes have clearly done their research into the psychology of such a physically and emotionally damaged character. Thus far, the Netflix/Marvel shows have proven far grittier and darker than the usual MCU fare. And whilst it isn't without its share of superpowers, it has a far more street-level and realistic approach. As such, a more thematic approach to the character, rather than an over-the-top visual one, might be the wisest course. It would certainly play into the more nuanced and borderline sympathetic portrayal of Billy Russo offered in season 1. And, based on early reviews for season 2, excessive scars or not, Barnes is reportedly knocking it out of the park.