Edward Norton, a three-time Academy Award nominee, is known for his great acting skills in movies like Fight Club and Primal Fear. He won a Golden Globe Award for his supporting role in Primal Fear. In 2008, Norton played Bruce Banner, aka Hulk, in The Incredible Hulk. Although the movie made $265 million worldwide, the audience was surprised to see a different actor playing Hulk in The Avengers.

Issues With The Producers And Rumored Writing

Norton had an issue with the producers over the runtime of the movie, which was cut short by 23 minutes. He was also absent from many promotional events early on. There were also rumors that Norton was a hidden writer for the movie, along with Zak Penn.

Marvel’s Decision To Replace Norton

Kevin Feige, the President of Marvel Studios, stated that they needed an actor who embodies the creativity and collaborative spirit of their other talented cast members. Norton’s agent was upset with this decision, but Norton was amicable and decided to split ways with Marvel. He mentioned that his roles in Birdman and Moonrise Kingdom were different from the loud and extravagant role in the MCU. Norton was also humble about Mark Ruffalo getting the role of Bruce Banner in The Avengers.

Mark Ruffalo Replaces Norton

Mark Ruffalo replaced Norton due to disagreements with the production company. Robert Downey Jr. appeared in the end credits scene of The Incredible Hulk, which indicated plans for Norton to continue as Bruce Banner in future movies. However, Marvel studios initiated a recast in the role, and Ruffalo became the new Hulk. He was initially nervous about playing the role, but he did a great job and won over the fans.

Director’s Initial Choice

It is understood that Mark Ruffalo was the director’s initial choice to play Hulk in the standalone movie. However, Marvel studios went with Norton because of his more prolific persona in Hollywood at the time. With the mega success of the Avengers franchise, Ruffalo will always be Bruce Banner in the eyes of many fans. Fans are still waiting for a Ruffalo starrer Hulk solo movie.