In a recent interview with the Australian morning show Fifi, Fev & Nick for Breakfast, Eric Bana made it clear that he has no intention of reprising his role as Hulk in the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU).
Dispelling any rumors of his potential involvement in the MCU’s future projects, Bana, known for his role as Bruce Banner in the 2003 film ‘Hulk,’ expressed his lack of interest in returning to the franchise:
“I can’t see it. I can’t see it.”
When told he has the physical requirements to play the character, Bana addressed the potential for CGI:
“Well… CGI man. [laughter] You don’t really need [it]. A lot of steroids there. [more laughter]”
Afterward, he confirmed his stance remains unchanged for the third time:
“Nah, I can’t see it.”
You can listen to that part of the podcast below.
Will There Be a New Hulk Movie?
As of June 15, 2023, the distribution rights to the Hulk character returned to Marvel Studios and Disney, opening up new possibilities for the character’s future in the MCU. Despite this and MCU director James Gunn’s interest in exploring different Hulk personas, Bana’s recent comments make it clear that his chapter as the Hulk is firmly closed.
Bana’s portrayal of the Hulk came before the character’s integration into the MCU. Directed by Oscar-winner Ang Lee, the 2003 film ‘Hulk‘ blended the traditional lore with more artistic elements. The film, however, received mixed reactions for being different from standard Marvel storytelling and its early CGI rendition of the Hulk.
Despite ‘Hulk’s mixed reviews and moderate box office success, Bana’s performance received acclaim for its depth. In the MCU, Edward Norton and Mark Ruffalo portrayed Hulk following Bana.
Bana is determined not to return as the Hulk in future MCU projects, but he has several other projects on the line — ‘Force of Nature: The Dry 2,‘ ‘Berlin Nobody,‘ and ‘Memoir of a Snail.‘
