Punisher’s Controversial New Logo & Role With The Hand Get Closer Look

Warning! Spoilers for Punisher #1 by Marvel Comics below

Marvel Comics is redesigning The Punisher for his upcoming series, and a brand new preview gives a closer look at the antihero’s controversial logo and role with the Hand. Frank Castle stands by as several Hand ninjas climb through a warehouse in the image. The Punisher sports his new logo and armor, representing a much-needed change for the character that’s coming very soon.

The Punisher has been put on the shelf in recent months, after the character’s logo was co-opted by a handful of hate groups – including being sported by some rioters during the January 6th insurrection as the U.S. Captiol. Marvel was put in a tough place with what to do next with the character, as the logo became an unfortunate symbol of division and hate in the real world. So much so, Punisher actor Jon Bernthal called out those sporting the logo, and Castle’s co-creator Gerry Conway even admits the character needs a reboot. Kevin Smith commented that he understands why Marvel Comics is evolving The Punisher while expressing hope they could reclaim the logo in the future.

Marvel revealed a new look at the upcoming Punisher revamp in Punisher #1 by Jason Aaron, Jesus Saiz, Paul Azaceta, and Dave Stewart, where his new Oni-inspired logo takes center stage. Marvel Comics previously revealed that the next chapter of The Punisher’s stories will feature him joining the Hand and serving the organization’s demonic figure, the Beast. The new image from Marvel Comics features the hero with multiple swords, new armor, and his controversial new logo as he leads the Hand into some sort of warehouse battle.

Make no mistake, The Punisher isn’t getting watered down, as his upcoming limited series will be extremely violent and bloody as Frank Castle continues his deadly quest for vengeance. However, this time he’ll be working alongside the Hand – who will seemingly give him his new Oni-like logo over his usual Punisher skull. It might be controversial to change The Punisher’s logo, but right now, Marvel needs to try something different if they want to continue with the character.

Will the new Oni skull be Frank Castle’s permanent look? Almost certainly not. But, since The Punisher’s logo has unfortunately been turned into a controversial symbol of hatred, Marvel Comics doesn’t have much choice but to take the character in a new direction for the time being. Marvel’s new Punisher series arrives in comic book stores on March 9, 2022.

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Liam McGuire
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Lead writer for Screen Rant’s comic team. [email protected]. Find me on Twitter @LiamRMcGuire for comic news and reporting.

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