Mark Ruffalo Signs to Play Hulk in ‘Avengers’

Published by Jeff Leins on July 23, 2010

The “ink is drying” on a deal between Marvel and Mark Ruffalo that officially brings the actor on board as Bruce Banner (a.k.a. the Incredible Hulk) for their May 2012 superhero ensemble movie The Avengers.

Ruffalo was offered the role last weekend, but at the time he was uncertain if he wanted the part that would put him alongside his Zodiac co-star Robert Downey Jr., as well as Samuel L. Jackson, Scarlett Johansson, Chris Hemsworth, and Chris Evans.  Also, potentially, Jeremy Renner as Hawkeye and Neal McDonough as Dum Dum Dugan.

Deadline reported Ruffalo has signed and will fly to San Diego tonight to appear at Marvel’s Comic-Con panel Saturday afternoon.  Joss Whedon confirmed at the convention he will direct and re-write.

The Wrap reports Ruffalo’s deal consists of more than just Avengers.  He potentially signed for four to six movies for Marvel.  Given the studio’s history of lowball salaries for its talent, Ruffalo probably didn’t score much in the process either.

The 42-year-old actor, who is earning raves for his role in the fantastic The Kids Are All Right, replaced Edward Norton, who was passed over to play the Hulk a second time.  A mean-spirited confirmation from Marvel Studios chief Kevin Feige then incited a public statement from Norton’s representation and finally Edward’s own neutral apology to fans.

Ruffalo is the third actor to play Bruce Banner after Norton and Eric Bana’s moody turn in Ang Lee’s poorly-received Hulk.