Lock and load, True Believers — Frank Castle returns in full force! With no memories, a loaded arsenal, and a burning thirst for vengeance, The Punisher is back and deadlier than ever. His brutal quest for answers kicks off in a no-holds-barred Red Band comic series — bullets will fly, blood will spill, and gore will be present as New York’s streets will once again tremble at the name… THE PUNISHER, as announced in the latest press release.
Brought to life by the powerhouse creative duo Benjamin Percy and Julius Otha, this explosive new series launches on September 10, 2025. Packaged in a protective polybag as part of Marvel’s Red Band initiative, this series isn’t pulling any punches — or protecting younger eyes from the carnage within. And yes, the iconic skull is back.
But that skull comes with a complicated legacy. For years, Marvel has grappled with its appropriation by police, military personnel, militias, white supremacists, QAnon supporters — even right-wing media figures like Sean Hannity. Co-creator Gerry Conway has openly condemned such uses, launching his own line of apparel designed by artists of color, with proceeds supporting Black Lives Matter-related causes.
Marvel has fought trademark abuse lawsuits, been criticized by actors and police commissioners, and divided creators. In the comics, Frank Castle confronts police for misusing his symbol. After the Capitol riot on January 6, where protestors wore skull gear, Marvel reduced Frank’s presence, redesigned the character twice, and reimagined the logo.
In one reinvention, Castle led The Hand in Weirdworld, wearing a demonic skull symbol to protect innocents. An entirely new Punisher was introduced, but he died. Garth Ennis’ Vietnam-era Punisher/Nick Fury story and Jason Aaron’s modern take were included.
Now, Marvel is bringing it all back to the core: the man, the mission, the mayhem. In a spiritual successor to the legendary Welcome Back, Frank era by Ennis and Steve Dillon, the original Punisher series returns with its first issue — and he’s ready to deliver his brand of justice once more.
What is the significance of the Punisher Red Band in the comic book series?
The Punisher Red Band symbolizes a darker, more intense narrative within the comic book series. It represents the character’s relentless pursuit of justice through violence, showcasing his moral complexities. This thematic element highlights the struggles between vengeance and righteousness, offering readers a profound exploration of anti-heroism in modern storytelling.
Punisher Red Band Series Redefines My Favorite Genre: Frank Castle, Marvel Comics, Percy, Daredevil & Avengers
This book dives deep into the violent, gritty heart of Marvel Comics, pushing the very limits of my favorite genre — no-holds-barred antihero storytelling.
Locked, Loaded & Unfiltered
Frank Castle returns as a vengeance machine, unleashing wrathful vengeance with a full clip in his violent search for justice in New York City.
A Brutal Creative Team
Writer Benjamin Percy and Julius Ohta bring pure explicit content, delivering a Punisher story unlike any new comic in the market.
A Must-Watch Drop
Covers That Kill
Marco Checchetto leads the main cover and variant covers, each packed with intensity that rivals anything in Star Wars or DC.
Classic Characters, Twisted Tales: Punisher Red Band
Cameos or nods to Daredevil, Wolverine, and even Hellverine bring longtime fans back to their favorite characters, whether hairy or not-so-heroic.