It’s almost time, the moment that many comic book fans have been waiting for: The Punisher on Netflix. While we’re all excited to see how Jon Bernthal does in the titular role, especially after his fantastic performance in Daredevil Season 2, one man does not a TV show make.
The true quality of the show will be determined by strength of its supporting cast, with stars like Deborah Ann Woll returning to her role as Karen Page and Ben Barnes as Billy Russo. One such star, Jason R. Moore, sat down with us to talk about his role in the series, what it was like on set, and why Jon Bernthal can’t eat cookies.
You’ve been involved in TV and film for a number of years, with minor roles in Law and Order and 2010’s The Sorcerer’s Apprentice, but The Punisher is your first major role. Talk us through your emotions right now, so close to series going live on Netflix.
Oh man! As my manager said once the deal was done: “It’s been a long time coming”. And yes it has. I’m so hyped right now. It’s a good feeling when you set a goal for yourself, especially a goal where you know the numbers are against you and you actually reach that goal. As you say, I’ve been at this for a while with very little to show so when the Punisher came about I felt like all those years before were not in vain.
For those who don’t know, give us some insight into your character, Curtis Hoyle. How does he play into the events of the series?
Hoyle is really good war buddies with Frank Castle and Billy Russo and they are truly friends but expect that friendship to be tested with both Castle and Russo. Hoyle is a really good guy and could be considered the moral center of the show. He spends his time working with vets suffering from all sorts of post war issues. Without giving too much away, Hoyle goes through some tough ordeals that pushes him to the very edge but always manages to do whats right.
What attracted you to this project? Are you a Marvel/Punisher fan?
1. My initial attraction was because the show was based on a comic book. 2. After seeing what Bernthal did in Daredevil season 2 and knowing that my character was going to be working closely with him–no brainer, gimme gimme. 3. I always liked the Punisher! I said to myself The Punisher on Netflix? It’s going to be as brutal as it’s supposed to be. And I think me and the rest of The Punisher fans are in alignment with that.
This series has given you a chance to work with actors like Jon Bernthal, Deborah Ann Woll and Paul Schulze, who have plenty of experience in the world of film and TV. How was that for you? Did they give you any advice to help your career going forward?
Well, I worked mostly with Bernthal and he was most gracious with sharing some of the things he learned during his career. But working with Bernthal reminded me of the days of acting school. He’s an actor’s actor. And a great leader on set. When the time comes for me to lead my own show, Bernthal is a great example on how that should be done.
Comic book fans are known for being very protective of their favourite characters and how they’re represented in other media, but Hoyle is quite an obscure character in the comics. Do you feel that gave you more freedom as an actor to make your own mark on the character?
Oh yeah! Hoyle was my character to design so to speak. They definitely gave me creative freedom with Hoyle. This is the first time in Marvel history that the character Curtis Hoyle has been brought to life. I’m honored to be the one to do it and I think the fans are going to appreciate what I do with Hoyle.
What was the experience like on set? Any fun anecdotes during filming?
Well Jon is The Punisher, right, and has to maintain a strict diet to keep those abs ripped. Well I don’t have to worry about that! So when crafty is walking around set handing out warm chocolate chip cookies, I delightfully take one. And Jon would get pissed and give me that side eye and ask ,“What grown man eats cookies?” And he would proceed to rag on me because he can’t have a warm chocolate chip cookie.
Obviously, an opportunity like this is a huge milestone for you and your career, but what’s next for you? Any upcoming projects that you can talk about?
It sure is. I’m currently shooting season 2 of The Quad. I’m working closely with Anika Noni Rose on this one and, oh, what an honor it is to work with such a talented actress.
And lastly, any secrets about the series you’d like to share? Don’t worry, we won’t tell Marvel.
Nope!
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