Jon Bernthal first captured audiences' attention with his unforgettable portrayal of Shane Walsh in The Walking Dead, a role that showcased his ability to blend raw intensity with emotional depth. Since then, he has carved out a unique niche in Hollywood as the go-to actor for complex, morally gray characters—often walking the fine line between hero and antihero.
What sets Bernthal apart is his rare combination of physical presence and emotional vulnerability. He brings an authenticity to every role that makes even the toughest characters feel human. Whether he’s playing a lawman, a criminal, or something in between, Bernthal's performances are always grounded, unpredictable, and utterly compelling.
His charisma is magnetic—one scene is often all it takes for him to become the most memorable character on screen. You never quite know what he’ll do next: Will he erupt in violence? Reveal a moment of quiet introspection? Or deliver a devastating emotional punch? That tension is what makes watching Bernthal so thrilling.
With The Accountant 2 bringing him back as Braxton, the younger brother of Christian Wolff, it's the perfect time to look back at some of Jon Bernthal’s most powerful performances across film and television. Here are 10 of his best roles that prove why he remains one of the most captivating actors working today.
