How This ‘Daredevil: Born Again’ Villain’s Power Struggle Enhances the Show’s Dynamic

In both the original Netflix series and the newly launched Daredevil: Born Again, the villains have consistently delivered compelling narratives. Among them, Vincent D’Onofrio’s portrayal of Wilson Fisk stands out as perhaps the most iconic street-level villain. Complementing him are memorable characters like Wilson Bethel’s Bullseye, Toby Leonard Moore’s James Wesley, and Hunter Doohan’s menacing Muse, to name just a few. However, today our focus shifts towards a particularly fascinating figure within this villainous landscape: Ayelet Zurer’s Vanessa Fisk.

Vanessa Fisk is a character steeped in shadows, her moral compass forever altered by her association with Wilson. The third season of the original Daredevil series hinted at her ascent as Fisk’s formidable partner; she chillingly ordered a hit on a threat to their freedom. As I watched her strategize while surrounded by Fisk’s secretive monitoring setups, I sensed we were witnessing the dawn of her transformation into a true antagonist.

The Rise of a Villainess

(Disney+)

Initially, I feared Vanessa might remain in her role as Wilson’s consort, simply basking in the limited power he afforded her while reinforcing his family-oriented facade. However, her character arc in Daredevil: Born Again has exceeded my expectations.

**Spoilers ahead for episode 7 of Daredevil: Born Again.**

Vanessa is no longer passive; she is enraged and determined. Upon discovering her self-worth, she realizes that she possesses significant business acumen and refuses to let Wilson dictate her value. The transformation from a pleading spouse—begging Daredevil to spare her husband’s life—to a woman who orchestrates a hit on him during a solitary dinner illustrates her deliciously dark evolution. Although the attempt on Wilson’s life may have failed, the narrative repercussions promise to be riveting.

What draws me to Vanessa’s intricate downfall is not merely her status as a scorned woman, but the depth of her motivations. She is not driven by typical betrayals such as infidelity or neglect. Admittedly, she experienced profound loneliness during Wilson’s incarceration, sparking an affair with another man. Yet, the crux of her conflict lies elsewhere.

Wilson’s return disrupted their illicit enterprise, with Vanessa’s strategic efforts overlooked in favor of his ambitions. He imposed a public role on her that she didn’t desire and has persistently concealed his plans from her, despite claiming they were equal partners. In Born Again, Vanessa has become wiser; she recognizes that to hold control, she must operate from the shadows, forging alliances with underworld figures when necessary.

Things Are About to Get Personal

Wilson Fisk and Vanessa Fisk with their backs turned to the camera in Daredevil: Born Again — (Disney+)

The rivalry between Wilson Fisk and Matt Murdock, portrayed by Charlie Cox, is one of the most engaging aspects of both Daredevil and Daredevil: Born Again. Their enmity is underscored by their conflicting ideologies; while both claim to act in the city’s best interests, their methods starkly contrast. Fisk’s brutal tactics aim to reshape the city to serve his vision, whereas Matt champions safety and kindness for all citizens. Furthermore, Fisk’s penchant for violence and Matt’s strict no-kill code highlight a profound ideological chasm.

While Matt and Fisk’s character arcs are compelling, I’m increasingly intrigued by the evolution of Wilson’s relationship with Vanessa. The intensifying toxicity of their partnership due to their individual ambitions presents a wealth of character exploration. I find myself eagerly anticipating how this dynamic unfolds in both the remainder of season one and the anticipated second season of Born Again.

Moreover, Wilson’s domestic struggles will test him in ways he’s never faced before. His past is a tapestry of violence—he killed his abusive father without regret and eradicated threats from the Russian mob with ease. But the prospect of a conflict with Vanessa, who genuinely matters to him, introduces a new level of emotional complexity. How will he react to her betrayal? This question touches his very core, challenging him as a man and as a ruthless political figure.

New episodes of Daredevil: Born Again air every Tuesday exclusively on Disney+.The future of this series promises to delve into the dark recesses of its characters, pushing Wilson Fisk to confront not just his enemies, but the turmoil within his own heart.

Source & Images