All of that sounds like a set-up for Duquesne to fully embrace his destiny, one that brings the character closer to his comic book counterpart.
The Swordsman first appeared in 1965’s Avengers #19, written by Stan Lee and penciled by Don Heck. A one-time circus performer, Duquesne helped care for and train Clint Barton and his brother Barney, before the former became the Avenger Hawkeye and the latter became the villain Trickshot. Gambling debts drove Duquesne to commit crimes under the name Swordsman, but he had a change of heart and helped the Avengers, soon earning membership on their roster. Swordsman remained a member on the team for several years, developing a relationship with fellow member Mantis.
When Mantis was revealed to be the cosmically-powerful Celestial Madonna, she attracted the attention of Kang the Conqueror and his Variants, Immortus and Rama-Tut. Swordsman died to protect Mantis, but was resurrected years later as a member of the plant people known as the Cotati.
Since then, Swordsman has returned as both an ally and enemy to the Avengers, which only underscores his importance to the team.
In short, Swordsman might not be the most trustworthy member of Earth’s Mightiest Heroes. But as the teaser makes abundantly clear, Daredevil’s going to need all the help he can get in Born Again season two. If the Swordsman will lend his blade, Matt Murdock would be a fool to turn him down.
Daredevil: Born Again season two premieres on March 24, 2026.
