Jon Bernthal Talks ’King Richard,’ How to Reboot ’The Punisher,’ and What Makes A Great Coach [ The Fourth Wall #43]

Walsh on "The Walking Dead," to the Marvel Cinematic Universe's version of the brutal Frank Castle in "The Punisher," right down to roles where he isn't cracking heads - his eerily spot-on portrayal of Lee Iacocca in "Ford v Ferrari," for example - Bernthal exudes an endless cool and charisma, while still looking like he could take on anyone in the room if he needed to. Bernthal is, in fact, so good at this, that his versatility beyond those qualities sometimes gets underappreciated.

Bernthal plays the sisters' coach and trainer Rick Macci, presenting audiences with a powerful supporting performance that is vulnerable, warm, and subdued. It may even be the actor's best performance. "It's this meditation on parenting, on fatherhood, and on family. It really explores youth sports and the full spectrum of it, how beneficial it can be in the development of a kid's life and development of character,” said Bernthal, relating “King Richard” to his own upbringing with sports. “I think that is the story in this project.”

While “King Richard” certainly focuses on Richard Williams, the endearing, quasi-paternal relationship between Macci and the Williams sisters also sits close to the heart of the film. Additionally, Bernthal highlighted an integral part of his youth, one that “King Richard” portrays, that he feels is now missing in youth sports. Of course, between all things "King Richard," there's one thing at the front of the minds of every Jon Bernthal fan: will he ever put on the skull again and step back into the shoes of Frank Castle?

During our conversation with Jon Bernthal we discuss his performance as Rick Macci in further detail, as well as gushing about the D.C. area sports franchises, the problems that are taking the joy out of youth sports today, the deleted "King Richard" scene Bernthal most wishes remained in the cut, and more!

"King Richard" is now playing in theaters and on HBO Max.

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