Yes, I know kittens…I am talking about comic books and comic book movies this morning. It was a loooong weekend. And, I am sorry, but Edward Norton is Nerd-Pretty. And I heart him. So he gets a post.

The much anticipated ‘Avengers’ movie will be without at least one major star when it premieres in 2012. Turns out Marvel has decided NOT to sign Edward Norton onto the film to reprise his role as The Incredible Hulk.

Over the weekend, Marvel President Kevin Feige released the following statement via HitFix:

“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.”

This statement, which also refers to other top-notch actors like Robert Downey, Jr. (Iron Man), Chris Evans (Captain America), and Scarlett Johannson (Black Widow), seems to give one the idea that Mr. Norton was not so much of a team player and was a little diva-ish.

However, Norton’s team has already struck back stating that Norton was on board the entire time and that the news he won’t be in the film is devastating.

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.”

I’m totally obsessed with the fact that Norton is ‘close personal friends’ with many of the cast members. Do you think that he and Robert Downey, Jr. get together on the weekend and chuck grapes at Scarlett’s cleavage? At least, that’s what they do in my mind.

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Images Via: wenn.com