Edward Norton will not be changing into the Incredible Hulk anymore

As far as the Incredible Hulk is concerned, the tale of making the Avengers movie looks to be a sad one, in my opinion. For many fans, including myself, Edward Norton was the best (perfect) choice to play the role of Bruce Banner, the man haunted by the alter-ego of the menacing Hulk. Sadly, Edward Norton will not be reprising his role as Dr. Bruce Banner for the Avengers movie, and that Marvel Studios plan to cast a new actor in the part. Marvel Studios is planning a May 4, 2012 release for The Avengers.

Several Weeks ago, Hitfix reported that a deal could not be made, despite Edward Norton wanting to join the ensemble cast that will include Robert Downey Jr as Iron Man, Samuel L. Jackson as Nick Fury, Chris Hemsworth as Thor and Chris Evans as Captain America.

Marvel Studios' Kevin Feige confirmed the report with the following statement he sent to the site: 

"We have made the decision to not bring Ed Norton back to portray the title role of Bruce Banner in the Avengers. Our decision is definitely not one based on monetary factors, but instead rooted in the need for an actor who embodies the creativity and collaborative spirit of our other talented cast members. The Avengers demands players who thrive working as part of an ensemble, as evidenced by Robert, Chris H, Chris E, Sam, Scarlett, and all of our talented casts. We are looking to announce a name actor who fulfills these requirements, and is passionate about the iconic role in the coming weeks."

If you ask me, that's one heck of an insulting statement that is obviously unprofessional. Brian Swardstrom of WME, which represents Norton, made his reply also via HitFix:

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.

And then EDWARD NORTON himself made his own reply via Facebook with this statement:

Depressing, isnt it? Well, we'll have to adjust to yet another new Bruce Banner now. I would have wanted David Duchovny to play the role coz he seems to be also perfectly fit for the role of the nerdy, angsty Banner. But then, over the past days, there has been announcements that Marvel already has somebody in mind; and that is Mark Ruffalo, who is said to be in the final stages of negotiations to play the role. My reaction? Meh :( How about you? What do you think? Hit the comments for your reactions...