Hollywood is good at some things and bad at others. Filling the role of The Hulk falls in the latter category. Ang Lee’s Hulk (2003) starred Eric Bana as the genetically-enhanced superhero. People didn’t like that movie so they started from scratch. Louis Leterrier’s The Incredible Hulk (2008) introduced us to a new Hulk played by Edward Norton. This reboot was better received by the fans and critics. After it broke that Joss Whedon would direct the dream team consisting of Robert Downey Jr., Chris Evans, Chris Hemsworth, Edward Norton, Samuel L. Jackson, and Scarlett Johannson, fans ’round the world were ready and willing to accept this group as The Avengers. Then this hit the ‘Net: Edward Norton is out. Entertainment site HitFlix got the exclusive scoop, and this is the statement they received from Marvel Studios President of Production Kevin Feige:
“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.”
What I’m getting from this statement is that the production team, including Whedon, did not get along so well with Norton, this led to creative differences, and utlimately to Norton’s exit. But shortly this statement was released, Norton’s agent Brian Swardstrom of WME retaliated by calling Feige’s statement “offensive” and his comments “unprofessional, disingenuous and clearly defamatory.” Apparently Norton met with Whedon and “several weeks of civil, uncontentious discussions” resulted. In the end, though, Marvel “had decided to go in another direction with the part.” Whatever the reason may be the fact remains so–Ed Norton will not play Hulk in The Avengers and Hollywood is back to the drawing board yet again with this apparent impossible to cast character. The movie is still set for a summer 2012 release.