Mark Ruffalo talks Marvel Phase 2 appearances

Much has been made of Robert Downey Jr.’s expiring Marvel contract, with plenty of online speculation suggesting that the studio might be tempted to recast or cut Tony Stark altogether from its upcoming films.

However, Mark Ruffalo has moved to reassure fans that he has heard no word of any recasting plans, and has every intention of reprising his role as Dr. Bruce Banner.

“I haven’t caught wind of any of that,” says Ruffalo of the recasting rumours. “I was surprised to hear it, because I don’t even think anyone’s really started negotiating yet.”

“I’d be really sad if they did,” continues Ruffalo. “I can’t imagine that. That would be bad. ‘That would not be good,’ as Joss Whedon would say… I’d love to come back as The Hulk. I don’t foresee not coming back as The Hulk.”

Meanwhile, Ruffalo also spilled the beans on his other Phase 2 appearances, which might be considered a bit spoilery , depending on how up to date you are with the next wave of films...

The one we’re primarily referring to is Iron Man 3 , in which Ruffalo pops up for a chucklesome post-credit cameo as Stark’s stand-in therapist.

“We were doing the Academy Awards and Robert [ Downey Jr .] said, ‘Hey, what do you think about coming and doing a cameo in Iron Man ?’” says Ruffalo. “So he pitched the idea of the theme and I said, ‘I would love to do that.’

“So, ten days later, I’m on a plane to L.A. and we’re shooting that scene. It was a lot of fun. It was written, but we improvised a little bit and Shane [ Black ] gave us some adjustments. I haven’t seen it yet, though. Robert thought it would be a good cap to all of the rest of the Iron Man story.”

Directed by Joss Whedon and hopefully starring the cast of the first film, The Avengers 2 will open in the UK on 1 May 2015.

George was once GamesRadar's resident movie news person, based out of London. He understands that all men must die, but he'd rather not think about it. But now he's working at Stylist Magazine.