In the ever-expanding Marvel Cinematic Universe, the concept of the multiverse has led to exciting opportunities for cameos and crossovers. However, not everything is on the table, and there are certain individuals with whom Marvel executive Kevin Feige has permanently severed ties, ensuring that they will never again be involved in the upcoming MCU projects.
The information comes from Joanna Robinson, author of the new book MCU: The Reign of Marvel Studios. In the book, Robinson reveals that two prominent figures in the entertainment industry who have severed their ties with the MCU are Edward Norton and Joss Whedon.
"If the Inhumans could be rehabilitated, apparently everyone in MCU history was on Feige’s call list—except Edward Norton, the franchise’s first Bruce Banner, and Joss Whedon, whose Agents of S.H.I.E.L.D. characters remained in limbo," an excerpt from the book reads.
Why Kevin Feige Refuses to Work with Edward Norton and Joss Whedon Again
Feige's decision isn't exactly a huge surprise. Edward Norton's departure from the MCU was notably documented, primarily due to creative differences during the production of The Incredible Hulk. Norton had a distinct vision for the film that didn't align with Marvel's plans. This led to Norton's exit from the role of the Hulk, which was subsequently recast with Mark Ruffalo taking over.
In the case of Joss Whedon, a conflict arose over the Marvel Television series Agents of S.H.I.E.L.D. Feige was reportedly unhappy with how the show contradicted events in the MCU films, particularly Captain America: The Winter Soldier. The existence of S.H.I.E.L.D. seemingly disrupted the MCU's "Sacred Timeline," as suggested in Feige's foreword to another MCU-focused book. Feige's stance on this issue is evident as characters from The Incredible Hulk have been reintegrated into the MCU, but Edward Norton was not brought back even for a cameo.
Additionally, Feige's decision not to work with Whedon possibly ties to the latter's work ethic. In the past, Whedon has been accused of abusive behavior towards the cast and crew of Justice League. Since then, people who have worked with Whedon on other projects have come forward with their own horror stories.
While it's known that these departures stemmed from creative clashes and differences in the direction of Marvel projects, the full extent of the issues between the parties involved remains largely undisclosed. As the MCU continues to evolve and expand, the situations surrounding Edward Norton and Joss Whedon have left their mark as complex and somewhat unresolved aspects of the Marvel universe. In the meantime, you can read more juicy details in MCU: The Reign of Marvel Studios, which hit bookshelves on October 10, 2023.
