Ed Norton on 'The Avengers': 'Sincerely hoped' he could reprise the Hulk role
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Marvel Studios recently announced that Edward Norton would not be reprising his role of Bruce Banner/The Incredible Hulk for the 2012 movie "The Avengers." In the statement from Kevin Feige, President of Production at Marvel, there were a few shots at Norton, implying that he doesn't embody "the creativity and collaborative spirit" of the ensemble surrounding the movie.
Norton's agent Brian Swardstrom fired back at Feige, calling his remarks "mean-spirited" and "accusatory." Now Norton himself has taken to Facebook to express his personal feelings.
"As most of you know, I don't like to talk much about the business of making movies because it means a lot to me to protect the audience's fullest enjoyment of the 'magic' that films can have.
But I am so appreciative of the outpouring of support from fans of the Hulk and the Avengers that I feel it would be rude not to respond. So here goes: It seems it won't work out for me to continue playing Bruce Banner for Marvel in 'The Avengers.'
I sincerely hoped it could happen and be great for everyone, but it hasn't turned out as we all hoped. I know this is disappointing to many people and that makes me sad. But I am very sincerely grateful to Marvel for extending the offer and even more so for giving me the chance to be a [part] of the Hulk's long and excellent history.
And I really can't thank the fans enough for how much enthusiasm you've sent my way about what Louis [Leterrier] and I tried to do in our turn with the legend. It means a lot to me. I grew up with Banner and Hulk and have been a fan of every incarnation. I'm really proud, and very blessed, to have been one of them and will be thrilled to see him live on through other actors. Hulk is bigger than all of us, that's why we love him, right?"
So there you have it. Norton doesn't really respond to the exchanges between Feige and his agent, but that's probably for the best. Perhaps this will end the whole squabble? What do you think, gang?
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Ed, you got ******* and you are a good actor. I know there is something going on behind closed doors because of Marvel's statement, or should I say: Disney.
Since Disney bought Marvel, it really is Disney's decision, or at least I feel it is Disney's decision. For your acting to be "not on the same level" as people like Robert Downey Jr. is absurd (as you are both incredible) and to even say that Chris Evans's acting is more spectacular than your own is down right ludicrous.
Without a doubt, your presence in Marvel's Avengers will be exceedingly disappointing. With that said, I would wish the film to be boycotted, but most likely, a huge blockbuster film will get it's money either way. The ghastly, deplorable X-Men Origins: Wolverine did very well at the box office. Yet, it left me disgusted.
Let Disney make this mistake. It will not be their first.
Maybe somebody at Disney finally noticed that Edward Norton is a terrible actor. Doesn't really affect me though, as I can't stand super-hero movies.
Edward norton is a fantastic actor, how could sdfhue refer to norton as a bad actor?? haven't you ever seen American history x? or what about fight club?? seriously if you dont know acting just dont say anything. I am deeply upset that Edward will not be reprising his role as the hulk because i loved him as bruce banner... This is marvels lost..
seriously, why u people on this site always change the headline? u trying to get more hits?
@jjfromwhocares- I think they get enough hits without needing to change headlines. Nice try, but your comment is without base and only speculation.
This decision is likely less about acting and more about Norton's reported obsession w/ reworking a script to his taste. That's ok on a solo project like "Hulk", but can be toxic on an ensemble like "Avengers". Banner likely a smaller character in "Avengers" with the CGI Hulk doing more of the heavy lifting. RULK HATE PUN!
Norton mentions being offered the role, which means to me that Marvel's interest changed after Joss Whedon was added to the project -- which makes sense in some ways, because Whedon still thinks he doesn't need critical ribbing. [Sorry, Whedonites, but both Firefly and Dollhouse deserved cancellation.]
It's sad to see him go, and sadder that Marvel wants J. Phoenix to be the new Banner. But I wish Ed Norton luck on his next project -- he is one actor that never disappoints in terms of doing something new and interesting.
Always a class act..
This is bunch o' crap. I place "The Avengers" under a voodoo curse until they plead with Ed Norton to come back and play the Hulk AND assume full creative control.
I think the bruce banner the he is the best. marvel you shuold consider and talk againg becuse this is a great actor and the work the he doin the movie biside the acting is better