 The casting process continued into much of 2010 , with the additions of Jeremy Renner , Mark Ruffalo , and Clark Gregg . Ruffalo replaced Edward Norton , who Marvel declined to have back . " We have made the decision to not bring Ed Norton back to portray the title role of Bruce Banner in The Avengers , " stated Feige . " 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 , Samuel , 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 . " In response , Norton 's agent Brian Swardstrom decried Feige 's statement , calling it " purposefully misleading " and an " inappropriate attempt to paint our client in a negative light " . In October 2014 , Norton claimed it was his own decision never to play Hulk again because he " wanted more diversity " with his career , and did not want to be associated with only one character . 
