Judging from yesterday’s Ed Norton news, his camp aint in a very happy mood after Marvel Studios‘ announcement that he will no longer reprise his role as the mild mannered Doc Bruce Banner for 2012’s Avengers movie directed by Joss Whedon.

More on the story after the cut…

Brian Swardstrom of WME responds with the following:

“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”

Incredible Hulk [Blu-ray]

See, Norton was actually looking forward to play the role of Banner/ Hulk once more. Based on the stories we’ve heard from both sides now, it looks like they’ve disagreed on something midway. I’m speculating that this has got to do something with the past or some major creative decision, probably with the characterization of Banner and/or The Hulk.

Also checking out Marvel’s Kevin Feige’s statement regarding the dumping of Norton, it definitely seems like he was provoking Norton’s camp with his “sharp” comments.

I really do hope they get this over with so we, as fans, could hear happy news for the Avengers. Meantime, I really should check out the Incredible Hulk [Blu-ray].

Technorati Tags: Avengers, Bruce Banner, Ed Norton, Hulk, Joss Whedon, Marvel Studios

Related posts:

1. Ed Norton Will Not Be The Hulk for Avengers
2. Chris Evans as Captain America? Leterrier for Avengers?
3. World War Hulks Update
4. Marvel Rides the Twilight Fever with Vampire Variants
5. Avengers Rumor: Nathan Fillion and Eva Longoria as Wasp and Ant-Man
6. Iron Man 2 Easter Eggs You Might Have Missed
7. Dark Son: Hiro Kala versus the Incredible HULKS
8. Review: Avengers # 1