Edward Norton Officially Hulks Out...of The Avengers Cast

Were you one of the thousands of fans hoping that the recent rumor of Marvel Studios dropping Edward Norton as the Hulk in 2012's The Avengers was just that -- an unsubstantiated rumor? Or better yet, a massive hype stunt by both sides in the run up to San Diego Comic-Con, and that when Saturday's Marvel Studios panel took place, we'd all be surprised to see Norton join the rest of the team onstage when director Joss Whedon announced the cast for this ridiculously anticipated, nerd-gasmic ensemble film?

That popping sound you hear in the distance? Us -- and Norton's agent -- bursting your bubble.

Proving that news doesn't stop just because it's Sunday, HitFix now confirms via Norton's agent, Brian Swardstrom of WME, that Marvel Studios has indeed dropped the actor from the project, citing, "the need for an actor who embodies the creativity and collaborative spirit of our other talented cast members."

Apparently, Marvel's reasoning for their decision was more than enough for Swardstrom to fire off an angry, online missive today at both the studio and specifically producer Kevin Feige, saying, "This offensive statement from Kevin Feige at Marvel is a purposefully misleading, inappropriate attempt to paint our client in a negative light."

Swardstrom goes on to confirm what was originally reported Friday night, saying Norton had indeed met with Whedon to discuss the project, with the end result being Norton eager to reprise his role as the Hulk. After several weeks of "good faith" negotiations between the actor and Marvel Studios, it was ultimately decided by Marvel execs that they would proceed with a (still) unknown actor for the role.

After the decision was made, both Swardstrom and Norton, "accepted their decision with no hard feelings," but apparently the two took issue with Feige's reason for dropping the actor, and as Swardstrom puts it, "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's talent, tireless work ethic and professional integrity deserve more respect, and so do Marvel's fans."

HitFix -- which originally broke the story -- has Swardstrom's response in its entirety on their site, and reports that Norton has yet to release a statement regarding the news, but fans should expect one in the coming weeks. Either way, whoever the studio decided to go with for the role -- and if they go forward with the rumored plan of announcing the actor at Comic-Con -- should be prepared for a contingent of jeers from those in attendance. No better time to start building up that Hulk-like thick skin!