‘Frank Castle’s Grief Management: Why Matt Murdock Needs It in ‘Daredevil: Born Again’

Anticipating the return of Frank Castle was an emotional journey I prepared myself for, knowing full well the impact it would have on me. Jon Bernthal’s portrayal of The Punisher encapsulates a profound spectrum of pain, grief, sorrow, and seething anger, evidenced through his performances in Daredevil Season 2 and his own series, now extending into Daredevil: Born Again.

Oh, how I’ve longed for Frank’s presence.

Frank Castle plays a pivotal role in the narrative arc of Matt Murdock (portrayed by Charlie Cox).Their contrasting ideologies form an intriguing “frenemy” relationship, marked by tension and philosophical conflict. While Matt has unwavering faith in the criminal justice system and a clear moral compass, Frank has completely rejected that notion. He wrestles with the temptations of violent vigilante justice but remains staunchly opposed to ever taking a life, demonstrating the inner turmoil he faces. This struggle becomes visibly intense in Daredevil: Born Again Episode 2, wherein corrupt officers provoke him into a confrontation, resulting in a cathartic primal scream that resonates deeply with his character’s uncertainty.

In stark contrast, Frank’s backstory is steeped in tragedy, as he witnessed the brutal murder of his family during a disastrous crime encounter. This loss fuels his relentless quest for vengeance, as he operates on the belief that the justice system is inherently flawed. Frank’s worldview is rooted in a belief that true redemption is an illusion—he believes Matt is simply postponing the inevitable. This theme reverberates through their dialogues in Daredevil: Born Again Episode 4, highlighting their ideological clash.

Confronting Grief, Guilt, and Anger

Frank’s methods of coping with grief are decidedly unconventional. Although he has resorted to extreme violence, he does not shy away from acknowledging his emotional scars. Rather than relegating his feelings to his dark persona, Frank opens up to Matt about his anguish in a hauntingly heartfelt exchange during Daredevil Season 2. The emotional weight of this interaction, particularly the graveyard scene, elevates Frank’s character, showcasing his vulnerability in a way that is rare for many male characters in both the Marvel Cinematic Universe and real life. He confronts his pain head-on, expressing the depth of his sorrow.

Conversely, Matt has yet to confront the grief of losing his close friend, Foggy (Elden Henson).Due to a one-year time jump in the narrative, Matt seems to have moved on; he’s established a thriving law practice, nurtured a new relationship, and forged connections within his community. However, despite these outward signs of progress, Matt is still denying himself the grief process. Carrying Foggy’s prayer card serves as a poignant reminder of his friend, but it’s not a substitute for genuine mourning. Ultimately, Matt’s inability to confront his loss is stifling his emotional growth.

Spoilers for Daredevil: Born Again Episode 4, “Sic Semper Systema.”

Despite Bullseye’s imprisonment and the apparent success of the justice system, Matt’s internal conflict remains unresolved. What’s causing his ongoing pain? Why is he reluctant to share this burden, even with someone as close as Karen? The only person who manages to reach him is Frank, who does so with unfiltered intensity in Episode 4.

As Frank confronts Matt, he lays bare the raw guilt that weighs on him: “You’re guilty! Yeah, that guilt, that shame, that’s my home, Red. I can see it on you, I can smell it on you. It’s all over you … You come at me with that horsesh*t about saving lives, how ’bout that friend of yours? You save his life? You lost him, didn’t you, Red?”

In response, Matt repeatedly insists, “It’s not about him, ” struggling to convince both himself and Frank of his detachment. Yet Frank knows the truth and attempts to guide Matt toward acknowledging his grief.“You hate yourself. It’s eating you up, ” he points out. He presses for Matt to voice Foggy’s name, hoping to help him process the pain locked away inside. In a rare moment of emotional revelation, Matt’s facade begins to crack, tears streaming down his face as he faces the truth he has suppressed for too long.

Indeed, they still diverge in methods and beliefs—Frank advocates for a lethal approach to justice, while Matt clings to his ideals. Yet, both perspectives hold truth. The essential conflict lies in Matt’s need to confront his emotions without sacrificing his moral integrity to appease the grief threatening to consume him. If he continues down this path of denial, he risks a dangerous transformation. The acknowledgement of Foggy’s significance in his life, perhaps articulated through his name, could signal a pivotal step toward healing.

What lies ahead for Matt Murdock if he fails to confront these demons? Only time will tell.

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