Fans of Edward Norton’s Hulk will be disappointed to learn that Marvel Studios has opted not to recast him as the emerald monster when the Avengers flick hits theaters in 2012. Instead, the studio is looking to recast the role to someone who is more of a “team-player”.

Here’s the full explanation 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.

After what I believed to be a pretty solid performance in the last Hulk movie, it’s a shame to see him not returning. This is arguably one of the poorest discussions that I’ve seen Marvel make in the past while and I’m not entirely sure they’ll be able to find someone as talented and as passionate for the character as Norton. Rumors are circulating that the new Hulk actor will be announced at San Diego Comic-Con, which kicks off on July 22nd.

Update 07.11.10: Edward Norton’s agent has now spoken out about the comments by Kevin Feige:

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.

Brian Swardstrom

Update 07.13.10: Next up to bat is Edward Norton who has now responded to the news of Hulk’s Avengers recasting. Here’s what he had to say via Facebook yesterday morning:

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 well as we 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.

Rumor has it that actor/”rapper”/comedian(?) Joaquin Phoenix is set to replace Norton as Banner in the Avengers movie. Check out E! Online for the full scoop.

Big thanks again to Tim for covering all the Hulk/Norton drama!

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