Things are moving quickly around the Marvel movie universe these days. Less than a few days after Marvel confirmed that Edward Norton wouldn't return as Hulk in "The Avengers," the actor's agent offered a statement of his own on the re-casting, and now Norton himself has chimed in on the controversial casting move.
Posted on Edward Norton's Facebook page, the statement not only responds to the re-casting news, but also offers his thanks to Marvel for the opportunity to bring one of his favorite comic book characters to the big screen.
"As most of you know, I don't like to talk much about the business of making movies because it means a lot to me to protect the audience's fullest enjoyment of the 'magic' that films can have," wrote Norton. "But I am so appreciative of the outpouring of support from fans of the Hulk and the Avengers that I feel it would be rude not to respond."
"So here goes: It seems it won't work out for me to continue playing Bruce Banner for Marvel in 'The Avengers,'" he continued. "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. But I am very sincerely grateful to Marvel for extending the offer and even more so for giving me the chance to be a par of the Hulk's long and excellent history."
"And I really can't thank the fans enough for how much enthusiasm you've sent my way about what Louis and I tried to do in our turn with the legend," Norton added. "It means a lot to me. 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."
The actor concluded with a final note about the character's ability to persevere, no matter what happens to him in the movie world — or any other realm, for that matter.
"Hulk is bigger than all of us," he wrote, "that's why we love him, right?"
Let us know what you think about Norton's statement in the comment section or on Twitter!
Related Posts:
- POLL: What Do You Think Of Ed Norton's Role Being Re-Cast For 'Avengers'?
- Edward Norton And 'The Avengers': A Timeline Of His Departure
- World War Hulk: Ed Norton's Agent Fires Back At Marvel