Ed Norton Saddened By “Avengers” Snub

Edward Norton was “sad” to learn that he will not reprise his portrayal of The Incredible Hulk in the new Avengers movie.

Norton was booted from the latest Marvel action flick — which will also star Scarlett Johansson, and Robert Downey Jr. — for lack of talent and not being a team player, the studio announced in a biting statement over the weekend. Marvel Studios has revealed that it seeking a new actor to play Dr Bruce Banner/The Incredible Hulk in Buffy The Vampire Slayer creator Joss Whedon’s highly-anticipated summer 2012 blockbuster.

“Our decision is definitely not one based on monetary factors, but rooted in the need for an actor who embodies the creativity and collaborative spirit of our other talented cast members.”

The insult prompted a scathing response from Norton’s agent, but Ed has written an open letter thanking fans for their “outpouring” in response to the news on his official Facebook page.

“It seems it won’t work 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 we all hoped. I know this is disappointing to many people and that makes me sad,” Norton, who played Banner in the 2008 film, wrote.

“But I am 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. And I really can’t thank fans enough for how much enthusiasm you’ve sent my way about what [director] Louis [Leterrier] and I tried to do in our turn with the legend. It means a lot to me,” the actor continued. “I grew up with Banner and Hulk and have been a fan of every incarnation. I’m really proud and very blessed to have been one of them and will be thrilled to see him live on through other actors. Hulk is bigger than all of us, that’s why we love him, right?”

Oscar winner Joaquin Phoenix is reportedly in chats to take over the role of The Hulk in The Avengers. Who do you think should get the role?