American filmmaker Steven S. DeKnight has revealed that Netflix limited the original Daredevil series from reaching a darker, more mature tone. Speaking with The Direct at the Spartacus: House of Ashur red carpet, he explained that the show faced “PG-16 handcuffs,” restricting violence and adult themes.
Steven S. DeKnight highlighted that the original Netflix series earned a 16+ rating in the U.K., while Marvel Studios’ revival, Daredevil: Born Again, now holds a full 18+ rating. He praised Disney+ for embracing a more intense approach, noting that the new series explores darker and more brutal storylines.
Reflecting on the return of Charlie Cox as Daredevil in She-Hulk, DeKnight mentioned the acrobatic fight sequences were exactly what he would have done with a larger Netflix budget. He said he is “delighted” that Marvel and Disney+ fully committed to the R-rated tone of Born Again.
Interestingly, Steven S. DeKnight’s new comments contradict his 2015 statement to The Hollywood Reporter, where he said he did not want the original series to reach a full R-rating. Now, he suggests he would have preferred a more explicit and mature version of Daredevil’s world.
All three seasons of the original Daredevil are currently streaming on Disney+. Meanwhile, Daredevil: Born Again is set to release its second season in March 2026. Despite fan interest, DeKnight says he is focused on the Spartacus franchise and is unlikely to return to Daredevil anytime soon.
Steven S. DeKnight’s insights show the differences between the Netflix series and the Disney+ revival. His comments highlight how creative restrictions on streaming platforms can shape the tone and storytelling of iconic characters.
In other news read more about: Netflix to develop cloud gaming service.
