Powers That be May Have Banned Edward Norton From Marvel

In the age of multiverse fad, nothing is impossible in the MCU. We found out about this, for example, in Spider-Man: No Way Home, where, with the help of this clever trick, we were able to enjoy as many as three previous actors playing the role of the iconic Spidey.

It is clear, then, that the more Marvel's Cinematic Universe explores the theme of multiverses, the more often we may witness the return of many actors who have more or less made their mark on the history of the MCU. And while it cannot be definitively ruled out, Edward Norton will most likely not be among their ranks.

According to Joanna Robinson, author of the book MCU: The Reign of Marvel Studios (via Reddit), the actor portraying Bruce Banner in The Incredible Hulk from 2008, was replaced in the role by Mark Ruffalo a few years later for good reason. The star of Red Dragon was reportedly blacklisted by Marvels Studios head Kevin Feige after different concepts for portraying the Hulk's adventures caused conflict between Norton and the creative team.

The Incredible Hulk, Louis Leterrier, Marvel Studios, 2008.

Recall that during the production of The Incredible Hulk its screenwriter Zak Penn said goodbye to the project. His duties were then taken over by Norton, who wanted to create a production in the style of Batman Begins from Christopher Nolan. At the time, the actor presented his plan for a show with a darker atmosphere, which allegedly appealed to Marvel's authorities. Unfortunately, after the picture failed to win praise from audiences and industry critics, it became apparent that the House of Ideas' powers that be were more interested in a monster blockbuster along the lines of the Godzilla movies.

Such conflicting visions eventually resulted in the fact that Norton's and Marvel's paths had most likely definitely parted.

Admittedly, Norton never confirmed reports of a conflict, but there is no doubt that something is afoot. While other stars of The Incredible Hulk have returned or will return to their roles in the MCU, the actor's absence speaks volumes about the status of his relationship with Feige.

Kamil Kleszyk

Kamil Kleszyk

At Gamepressure.com deals with various jobs. So you can expect from him both news about the farming simulator and a text about the impact of Johnny Depp's trial on the future of Pirates of the Caribbean. Introvert by vocation. Since childhood, he felt a closer connection to humanities than to exact sciences. When after years of learning came a time of stagnation, he preferred to call it his "search for a life purpose." In the end, he decided to fight for a better future, which led him to the place where he is today.