Fans everywhere are still buzzing, after Marvel Studios' president "Kevin Feige" issued a
Statement yesterday confirming that
The Incredible Hulk star "Edward Norton" would not being Hulking-out in Marvel's hero-clash "The Avengers".
Now, Norton's WME agent Brian Swardstrom, responds (via
HitFix) to Feige's statement saying that Norton had already indicated his interest in being part of "The Avengers" cast, but out of nowhere learned that he was being cut out even as salary negotiations were under way.
Swardstrom's Response...
"(Feige's) offensive statement ... 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 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 ... 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."
With Joss Whedon directing,
The Avengers supposedly begins production February 2011 with this "different" Hulk direction, Robert Downey Jr. (Iron Man), Samuel L. Jackson (Nick Fury), Chris Evans (Captain America), Chris Hemsworth (Thor), and Scarlett Johansson (Black Widow) confirmed. And Jeremy Renner (Hawkeye), Nathan Fillion (Ant-Man), and Eva Longoria (Wasp) unannounced. The film hits theaters May 4, 2012.
DCMF - Though the Oscar nominated actor has yet to respond directly, it seems "Norton Vs Marvel" is the case we're in yet again. Marvel Studios' Kevin Feige and a few special guest,(
Thor,
Captain America, and some
Avengers cast members) are scheduled to appear at the San Diego Comic-Con July 24th, Saturday. And while there, they're expected to reveal inside looks into their upcoming films. Hopefully they'll be a liberty to discuss this dilemma. But I'm sure with all the fans wondering what went wrong, they're gonna reveal something. What do you think?