2) Edward Norton
Many of the stars of the Marvel Cinematic Universe have enjoyed long, successful careers as some of the world’s most beloved superheroes. One of the MCU’s earliest stars, however, Edward Norton, wasn’t so lucky.
Norton played Bruce Banner in 2008’s The Incredible Hulk, but was ousted from the MCU just before the Avengers assembled for the first time on the stage of San Diego Comic-Con in 2010. Just before the convention, Norton was replaced by Mark Ruffalo, and the rest, as they say, was history.
Norton’s ousting happened thanks to some behind-the-scenes Incredible Hulk drama, as he reportedly clashed with the studio and director Louis Leterrier over the final cut of the film. Marvel is famously protective of its properties and overall creative vision, and Norton’s problems with the studio are part of why The Incredible Hulk remains the least referenced or important film in the larger MCU.
Despite whatever happened behind the scenes, there’s no denying that Norton did a great job with the role and deserved the chance to continue playing Banner as the MCU expanded. He did get some redemption with his Academy Award-nominated role in Birdman last year, but if there’s ever a chance for Norton to play another superhero or supervillain, we hope he puts the jolly green rage monster behind him and jumps at the opportunity.
