In a shocking announcement over this weekend, Marvel announced that actor Edward Norton would no long be playing Bruce Banner/The Hulk in the upcoming Avengers film and continuing Hulk franchise.  While many fans, remembering that Samuel L. Jackson was close to never reprising his role as Nick Fury, believed that this was a hoax, the official announcement sealed the deal:

“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.”

The next day, Norton’s agent, Brian Swardstrom, fired back, criticizing Marvel’s “mean-spirited” comments and defending his client.  Norton is not the first actor to be recast in the Marvel Movie Universe.  Terrence Howard was replaced by Don Cheadle in Iron Man 2.

Fans are now speculating who could replace Norton as Bruce Banner.  The latest rumor is that Joaquin Phoenix has been offered the role, but that information seems unlikely considering Phoenix’s infamous retirement from acting.  And Eric Bana, who previously played the role in Ang Lee’s Hulk, already has stated that he won’t return to the role, not to mention that his return would complicate continuity further since his film does not take place in the Marvel Movie Universe.

One of the more popular choices among fans is District 9’s Sharlto Copley, who showed he could play the man/creature-on-the-run from the military in Blomkamp’s film, as well as play an American character in an ensemble cast in The A-Team.  (Not to mention that Copley will most likely cost less money than Norton).

Considering that many fans are angry at Marvel for this decision, the studio should choose wisely in casting the new Banner to carry on the franchise and contribute to their cross-over film, The Avengers.

Sources: http://www.comicbookmovie.com/fansites/TheDogPound/news/?a=19925

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