Few actors in Hollywood have built a résumé as intense, consistent, and versatile as Jon Bernthal. With his signature blend of grit, emotional depth, and physical presence, Bernthal has carved out a unique space in film and television, thriving in everything from action-packed thrillers to heartfelt sports dramas and historical epics. His evolution from one-off roles on network TV to commanding the screen alongside cinematic heavyweights is a testament to his scene-stealing prowess.
Whether he’s delivering raw, unflinching justice as Frank Castle in The Punisher or bringing charisma and complexity to King Richard, Bernthal proves time and again that he’s more than a tough guy—he’s one of the most compelling actors of his generation. This roundup highlights 10 of his best performances, showcasing a body of work that’s as dynamic as it is unforgettable.
Here are 10 of Jon Bernthal’s best movies and TV shows to see…
#1. The Punisher (2017–2019) – As Frank Castle
No list of Jon Bernthal’s best roles in movies or TV shows can ignore The Punisher. His portrayal of Frank Castle in the Marvel series is widely hailed as one of the most faithful and emotionally complex takes on the character. Bernthal masterfully balances brutal, high-octane action with a haunting psychological depth, transforming the vigilante into a fully realized, tragic anti-hero.
#2. King Richard (2021) – As Rick Macci
In the critically acclaimed King Richard, Jon Bernthal takes on the role of renowned tennis coach Rick Macci, joining the Williams family’s journey under Richard’s determined leadership. While Will Smith rightfully drew most of the spotlight—and an Oscar—Bernthal’s performance stood out for its warmth, humor, and infectious charisma, earning quiet acclaim in a film packed with powerhouse performances.
#3. The Walking Dead (2010–2012) – As Shane Walsh
Jon Bernthal’s breakout role came in The Walking Dead, where he played Shane Walsh, a volatile, deeply complex former police officer. Though his time on the series was brief, it was undeniably impactful. Shane’s slow-burning descent into moral ambiguity and his eventual clash with Rick Grimes helped define the show’s early tension, setting a high bar for character-driven drama in the series’ formative seasons.
#4. Ford v Ferrari (2019) – As Lee Iacocca
Among the most polished entries in Jon Bernthal’s movies, Ford v Ferrari casts him as automotive executive Lee Iacocca. Sharing the screen with heavyweights like Matt Damon and Christian Bale, Bernthal delivers a performance marked by poise and quiet authority. As a key player in the high-stakes Ford versus Ferrari rivalry, he brings both charm and corporate grit, proving once again that he can hold his own in any ensemble.
#5. The Bear (2023) – As Michael Berzatto
In the award-winning TV series The Bear, Jon Bernthal plays Michael Berzatto, the late brother whose tragic absence looms large over the story. Though his screen time is limited, Bernthal’s raw, emotionally charged performance leaves a lasting imprint. His portrayal brings depth and weight to the show’s central grief, once again proving how he can command a story even from the margins.
#6. The Wolf of Wall Street (2013) – As Brad Bodnick
Working under the legendary Martin Scorsese, Bernthal starred alongside Leonardo DiCaprio in The Wolf of Wall Street. As Brad Bodnick, a ruthless drug dealer and muscle-for-hire, he delivered one of his most electrifying performances. Balancing dark comedy with intense physicality, Bernthal showcased his range, proving he’s just as adept at humor as he is at grit.
#7. We Own This City (2022) – As Sgt. Wayne Jenkins
From the creators of The Wire, this gritty HBO miniseries featured Bernthal as Wayne Jenkins, a corrupt Baltimore cop. His performance in We Own This City was widely praised as transformative, delivering a nuanced portrayal that captured the charisma and moral decay at the heart of systemic police corruption.
#8. Sicario (2015) – As Ted
In Denis Villeneuve’s masterful thriller Sicario, Bernthal delivers a small yet pivotal performance as Ted, a seemingly ordinary man who becomes entangled in a chilling cartel underworld. Though brief, his role leaves a lasting impact, underscoring his talent for bringing unexpected depth to every character.
#9. Baby Driver (2017) – As Griff
Stylized and kinetic, Baby Driver gave Bernthal the perfect opportunity to flex his action muscles. As Griff, one of the criminals in this high-octane heist film, he commands attention despite limited screen time. His powerful opening scene instantly sets the film’s adrenaline-fueled tone.
#10. Wind River (2017) – As Matt Rayburn
In this Taylor Sheridan thriller exploring violence on Native American reservations, Bernthal delivers one of his most heartbreaking performances. Portraying the victim’s boyfriend, his role unfolds in a devastating flashback that adds profound emotional weight to the story’s central mystery.
Featured image: @asylum.entertainment/Instagram
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