We previously brought you the news that Edward Norton would not be The Hulk in the forthcoming Avengers film and then the official statement from Marvel Studios President of Production Kevin Feige.
I raised a few points about Feige’s statement in my post including highlighting what appeared to be criticisms of Norton. It looks like I wasn’t the only one who thought the statement contained thinly veiled criticisms. Today, Norton’s agent Brian Swardstrom of WME issued the following statement, again via HitFix:
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
WME
It sounds from this statement like things fell apart because of money and it is interesting to hear that Marvel and Whedon were positive about Norton reprising his role. Swardstrom also seems to confirm the plans that many have suspected Marvel have for the entire Avengers cast to ensemble onstage at this year’s Comic-Con. It’s now likely that this might be the first time we find out who the new Hulk is. This is a tough prospect for an actor to stand up on stage in front of a crowd probably annoyed about this Norton controversy. Let’s hope Marvel make a good choice.
Obviously the above statement is coming from Norton’s agent and not Norton directly but I think it’s safe to say it’s unlikely Norton and Marvel will be working together again, at least for quite some time, and I expect to hear more about this story as the drama continues to play out. We will, of course, bring you further updates when we have them.
