From its debut on Netflix in 2015, Daredevil quickly became one of Marvel’s most acclaimed series, offering a grounded, gritty take on superhero storytelling. Over three seasons, it elevated its already beloved characters to new heights, setting a new standard for superhero television.
After its cancellation, hope remained that the series would return under Disney’s umbrella. That hope solidified with Matt Murdock’s cameo in Spider-Man: No Way Home (2021), followed by appearances in She-Hulk and Echo. While exciting, these cameos only fueled speculation about whether Marvel would truly do justice to the character in a full-fledged return. When Daredevil: Born Again was officially announced for Disney+, excitement was met with curiosity and concern, especially with rumors of a tonal shift. Would the series maintain its dark, mature storytelling, or would it be diluted to fit the broader Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU)? Thankfully, Born Again reverts to the original Daredevil’s raw, visceral style—where it belongs.
Emerging from the ashes of Netflix, Daredevil: Born Again retains the aesthetic of its predecessor while diving even deeper into political and police corruption, the cost of vigilantism, and the personal sacrifices that come with a dual identity. The series cements Vincent D’Onofrio’s Kingpin and Charlie Cox’s Matt Murdock as lifelong adversaries—two forces destined to clash, solidifying Daredevil as one of Marvel’s greatest properties.
Set years after Season 3, Born Again finds Matt Murdock stepping away from crime-fighting, instead focusing on justice in the courtroom. However, his retreat from vigilantism doesn’t last long, as Wilson Fisk rises to power—this time as the newly elected mayor of New York City. With Fisk’s political ambitions threatening the city’s future, Murdock is forced back into action, setting the stage for another inevitable confrontation.
As with the original series, Born Again excels in its storytelling, balancing substance and style while exploring the moral gray areas of heroism. The show doesn’t shy away from the consequences of a vigilante lifestyle, examining the sacrifices Murdock must make and the emotional toll of leading a double life. The moral dilemmas remain compelling, and the action sequences—including the signature “one-take” fight scenes—are among Marvel’s best. Every punch carries emotional weight, reinforcing the stakes of Murdock’s struggle, and the cinematography immerses the audience in the intensity of each battle.
Unsurprisingly, the series is elevated by stellar performances. Charlie Cox once again proves why he is the definitive Daredevil, seamlessly embodying Murdock’s internal battle between his duty as a lawyer and his need to act outside the law. Vincent D’Onofrio delivers his most menacing portrayal of Kingpin yet—no longer just a crime lord, but a political mastermind manipulating the city’s future. Their dynamic remains electric, with both actors pushing their characters to new depths.
While their screen time is limited, Deborah Ann Woll’s Karen Page and Jon Bernthal’s Frank Castle (The Punisher) leave a lasting impact. Michael Gandolfini’s portrayal of a corrupt politician adds another layer of intrigue, while the late Kamar de los Reyes shines as White Tiger, bringing emotional weight to his role.
Despite its strengths, Born Again isn’t flawless. Mid-season pacing issues slow the momentum, with certain episodes feeling more like filler than essential storytelling. However, the series builds to a thrilling and satisfying conclusion, making it impossible not to crave more.
As Marvel’s most mature and thematically rich series, Born Again cements Daredevil as essential viewing—one I can’t wait to revisit.
