"The Incredible Hulk" star Edward Norton just released a statement on his Facebook page about how he won't be involved with Marvel's upcoming "Avengers" movie:
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 me way about what Louis 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?
Sincerely,
Edward Norton
On Friday, Marvel claimed to have ended negotiations with Norton to reprise his role as Bruce Banner in Joss Whedon's "The Avengers" over creative/professional differences, as opposed to a salary dispute.
Marvel chief Kevin Feige said in a statement on Saturday: "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." By suggesting that "The Avengers" "demands players who thrive working as part of an ensemble," Feige seemed to be implying that Norton wasn't a team player. But if Feige truly felt that way, then why did Marvel initially offer Norton the role and begin negotiating with him in good faith?
On Sunday, Norton's agent, Brian Swardstrom of WME, responded by calling Feige's statement "offensive," "purposefully misleading," "inappropriate," "mean spirited" and "accusatory." It's rare than an agent offers a personal statement about a client's negotiations, but it's clear that Swardstrom thought Feige's statement was disingenuous, and potentially harmful to Norton's career should people believe Feige's reason for walking away from the negotiating table.
Expect Norton's replacement to be announced at the upcoming Comic Con convention.
