Fans of the Hulk will be disappointed to learn that Ed Norton will not be playing Hulk in the upcoming flick The Avengers. The decision to not cast Ed seemed to be an easy one for Marvel execs, who released this statement regarding the news:
“We have made the decision to not bring Ed Norton back to portray the title role of Bruce Banner in the Avengers. Our decision is definitely not one based on monetary factors, but instead rooted in the need for an actor who embodies the creativity and collaborative spirit of our other talented cast members. The Avengers demands players who thrive working as part of an ensemble, as evidenced by Robert, Chris H, Chris E, Sam, Scarlett, and all of our talented casts. We are looking to announce a name actor who fulfills these requirements, and is passionate about the iconic role in the coming weeks.”
Norton was not impressed with Marvel’s comments about his work ethic and shot back with this statement via his rep Brian Swardstrom:
“This offensive statement from Kevin Feige at Marvel is a purposefully misleading, inappropriate attempt to paint our client in a negative light. Here are the facts: two months ago, Kevin called me and said he wanted Edward to reprise the role of Bruce Banner in The Avengers. He told me it would be his fantasy to bring Edward on stage with the rest of the cast at ComiCon and make it the event of the convention. When I said that Edward was definitely open to this idea, Kevin was very excited and we agreed that Edward should meet with Joss Whedon to discuss the project. Edward and Joss had a very good meeting (confirmed by Feige to me) at which Edward said he was enthusiastic at the prospect of being a part of the ensemble cast. Marvel subsequently made him a financial offer to be in the film and both sides started negotiating in good faith. This past Wednesday, after several weeks of civil, uncontentious discussions, but before we had come to terms on a deal, a representative from Marvel called to say they had decided to go in another direction with the part. This seemed to us to be a financial decision but, whatever the case, it is completely their prerogative, and we accepted their decision with no hard feelings.
We know a lot of fans have voiced their public disappointment with this result, but this is no excuse for Feige’s mean spirited, accusatory comments. Counter to what Kevin implies here, Edward was looking forward to the opportunity to work with Joss and the other actors in the Avengers cast, many of whom are personal friends of his. Feige’s statement is unprofessional, disingenuous and clearly defamatory. Mr. Norton talent, tireless work ethic and professional integrity deserve more respect, and so do Marvel’s fans.”
Sounds messy!
Who do you think is telling the truth?
Comments
James Sheldon
July 13th, 2010 - 10:06:13 AM
Norton is intense. I'm sure he just doesn't want the movie to suck, which I wholeheartedly believe it will be sub-par. Full of too much, and going in a direction that is ever-so-slightly too smart for the general public: Definitive Joss Whedon. You don't come out and state what Marvel stated unless your feelings got hurt along the way, and you're trying to poke the finger into the ribs.
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Ounvmeso
June 26th, 2011 - 1:30:48 PM
This is complete crap!!!! Mark Ruffalo is a low "B" rated actor at best. The only movie he has done a decent job in was Shutter Island and that was a simple roll. They needed Edward Norton to fill the actor gap between Robert Downey Jr and the other list of B+ coming of age actors in the movie. How many movies has "Thor" Hemsworth been in? 2 known movies? What about "Captain America" Chris Evans? He was the Human Torch in the 2 Fantastic 4 movies and has not really been a major actor to date. This blows BIG TIME!!! Quit switching actors and screwing your audiences!!!! You don't think we will notice that the crappy Green Lantern is going to be Deadpool in his upcoming movie debut? What were you guys thinking on that? Stan hire some guys who know what the flip it means to like DC or Marvel comics and to understand how much we hate changing our characters!
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