Rumors swirling about Mark Ruffalo’s future as the Hulk in the Marvel Cinematic Universe have been definitively addressed by the actor himself. Following speculation fueled by comments made at the Golden Globes, Ruffalo has confirmed he remains under contract with Marvel Studios, dismissing reports of being fired.
The uncertainty stemmed from Ruffalo’s remarks at the Golden Globes ceremony, where he used the platform to voice strong criticism of President Donald Trump and U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE). He referred to ICE agents as “literal stormtroopers” and leveled harsh accusations against the President, calling him a “convicted felon, a convicted rapist…a pedophile.” These comments quickly sparked online discussion and, subsequently, rumors of potential repercussions from Disney.
However, during an interview promoting his new film, Crime 101, Ruffalo directly refuted the claims. “Not that I know of,” he stated when asked if he had been terminated. He added, with a characteristic smile, “People keep going, ‘Did you get fired?’ I’m like, ‘Not that I know of.’” His co-stars, Chris Hemsworth and Halle Berry, chimed in to dismiss the rumors as “nonsense,” even suggesting they would “protest” if Ruffalo were to be removed from the MCU.
Ruffalo, who took over the role of Bruce Banner/Hulk from Edward Norton in 2012’s The Avengers, has become a fan favorite within the franchise. Despite never receiving a dedicated solo Hulk film – a situation complicated by rights issues with Universal – he has played a significant role in multiple Avengers films and Thor: Ragnarok. His most recent MCU appearance was in 2022’s She-Hulk, with a voice role in What If…? also to his credit.
The actor’s future within the MCU appeared uncertain, particularly as his next confirmed role is in this summer’s Spider-Man: Brand New Day. This gap in appearances fueled speculation, but Ruffalo’s comments suggest his involvement is far from over. He hinted at ongoing projects, stating, “Yeah, I’ll be there as long as they have me. I have a good relationship with them…who knows, there might be things I’m already doing that are…I’m around. Let me just say that.”
Industry observers note that a major shift like firing a key actor would typically be accompanied by official announcements and trade reporting, similar to the situation surrounding James Gunn’s departure from Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 3. The lack of such reporting lent further credence to the belief that Ruffalo’s position was secure.
The clarification comes as a relief to fans who have followed Ruffalo’s outspoken political views. He has a history of using his platform to advocate for progressive causes, and his recent comments were not an isolated incident. The initial concern was that Disney might take action in response to his criticism of the President.
While the possibility of a World War Hulk film or another solo Hulk project remains unconfirmed, Ruffalo’s continued presence in the MCU suggests Bruce Banner will continue to be a part of the franchise’s evolving narrative. His role could extend to upcoming Avengers films, such as Avengers: Doomsday or Avengers: Secret Wars, or potentially through appearances in Disney+ series.
Some speculation had centered on Ruffalo’s reputation as a “spoiler,” with some suggesting Marvel might have grown frustrated with his tendency to inadvertently reveal plot details. Others pointed to the character’s evolution into “Smart Hulk” as a potential sign of diminishing importance. However, these theories have now been largely dismissed.
As one of the original Avengers still actively involved in the MCU, Mark Ruffalo’s presence is considered valuable for bridging the gap between the franchise’s established heroes and its newer generation of characters. For fans of the Hulk, the future appears secure, and further announcements regarding Bruce Banner’s role in the MCU are anticipated.
