NORTON TAKES HIGH ROAD IN DISPUTE WITH MARVEL

Edward Norton has decided to ignore what his agent on Monday described as the “mean-spirited, accusatory … unprofessional, disingenuous and clearly defamatory” statement of Kevin Feige, Marvel Studios’ president of production, who announced over the weekend that Norton would not reprise his role as The Incredible Hulk in the upcoming The Avengers movie. Feige said that the decision to replace Norton was “rooted in the need for an actor who embodies the creativity and collaborative spirit of our other talented cast members.” In a statement posted on his Facebook page, Norton expressed disappointment that he had been passed over. “I sincerely hoped it could happen and be great for everyone, but it hasn’t turned out as well as we hoped,” he wrote. “I know this is disappointing to many people and that makes me sad.” Norton made no mention of Feige’s remarks but instead thanked Marvel for considering him for the role in The Avengers and “for giving me the chance to be a part of the Hulk’s long and excellent history.”