Fans expect the upcoming Daredevil series to be Marvel’s redemption arc, and each time we learn something new that expectation only grows. New behind-the-scenes photos of Marvel Studios’ highly anticipated Daredevil: Born Again confirm the return of beloved characters from the original Netflix series.
As previously reported, rumors had suggested Deborah Ann Woll and Elden Henson were in talks to reprise their roles. Now, the latest glimpses from the production indeed reveal the comeback of Karen Page and Foggy Nelson. There is a twist though, indicating the growth of the characters from where they were at the end of Daredevil Season 3.
Resuming production after a pause due to Hollywood strikes, this behind the scenes content was posted on social media such as X (formerly Twitter). Notably, the trio is spotted walking the streets of Hell’s Kitchen.
https://twitter.com/DDevilUpdates/status/1751966094091341850
Foggy is seen sporting a beard and Karen showcases a new hairstyle. Even more importantly, the three are now equal partners at their firm ‘Nelson, Murdock, and Page’. Additionally, the first look at the White Tiger in costume adds another intriguing plot point.
The shots of the White Tiger, presumably Hector Ayala, hint at a significant role in the storyline. It was previously thought that Murdock takes Ayala as a client after he intervenes in a mugging, leading to a complex legal situation involving corrupt cops and another person (other than Daredevil) taking up vigilantism.
Initially conceptualized as a soft reboot of Daredevil, only Charlie Cox and Vincent D’Onofrio (as Matt Murdock and Wilson Fisk, respectively) were initially verified to return. However, the creative direction underwent a significant reset during production, leading to the decision that the characters of Karen Page and Foggy Nelson will come back to play integral roles in the upcoming series.
Vincent D’Onofrio shed light on this creative reset, stating, “During our restart of all the creative on Daredevil: Born Again, all the creatives got together and said, ‘Look, this is how we’ve got to do it now’.” This shift from a reboot to a continuation of the events from the Netflix series solidifies the connection between Daredevil and its spinoffs, bringing in a wealth of narrative potential.
It should also be noted that in the closing moments of the Echo series, Wilson Fisk expressed a desire to run for New York City Mayor. Previous reports suggested that he would have already taken office by the time Daredevil: Born Again begins, but a prop spotted on set challenges these claims.
Fisk is portrayed as a likely favorite in the polls, positioning him as a formidable contender in the political arena. This implies that the reshoots will modify the initial plans by setting the events during the campaign period.
https://twitter.com/DDevilUpdates/status/1751212919222653369
Interestingly, Fisk’s character is presented as an entrepreneur in the mock-up newspaper, omitting any mention of his criminal history or time spent behind bars. Quoted as advocating for a New York that thrives economically and promotes sustainable development and equitable opportunities, this implies that Fisk either managed to clear himself or downplayed his criminal past to the public.
Another of the show’s villains, Muse, also makes a debut in set photos. Since a stand-in was used for the scene, details about Muse’s costume remain unknown – though we suspect it may be fairly accurate to the comic book’s design.
One rumored returning actor that has not been shown in any behind the scenes photos and videos yet is Wilson Bethel. However, he is expected to suit up once more as Bullseye. We wonder what role the character will play in the new story – will he be employed by Fisk once again?
On that note, we wonder; will Karen and Foggy be sticking around for the full season of Daredevil: Born Again? Given how the production is only adding and making changes to the already shot episodes, it’s possible they will have reduced screen time compared to the Netflix series.
With Dario Scardapane, producer and writer for The Punisher, taking on the role of showrunner and Moon Knight directors Justin Benson and Aaron Moorhead at the helm, Daredevil: Born Again promises an exciting and dynamic return to the mean streets of the Marvel Cinematic Universe.
While a specific premiere date is yet to be confirmed, fans can revisit the original 3-Season Daredevil series on Disney+ in anticipation of the upcoming release.