Tangled rights between Marvel and Universal are blocking a standalone Hulk movie.
Mark Ruffalo, who has portrayed the Hulk since 2012, admitted that the prospect of a solo film for his character remains uncertain. In an interview with GQ, the actor explained that despite years of discussion, the character’s film rights are still held by Universal Pictures rather than Marvel Studios.
“I’d love to make a solo Hulk movie. But, as you probably know, the rights aren’t with Marvel — they’re with Universal. To be honest, I don’t know if that will ever come to pass. We’ve tossed around different concepts for what it could be, but for now it’s all talk.”
Ruffalo added that audiences would likely be intrigued by such a film if Marvel could “find the right approach.” Nonetheless, legal constraints prevent the studio from moving forward with production at this time.
The most recent feature focused on the Hulk was 2008’s The Incredible Hulk, starring Edward Norton. Since then, the character has only appeared in ensemble and crossover entries in the Marvel Cinematic Universe — from The Avengers (2012) to the She-Hulk series (2022).
While a standalone movie remains uncertain, Ruffalo will once again portray Bruce Banner in Spider-Man: A New Day — the fourth solo Spider-Man film starring Tom Holland. Filming is underway in London, and recent set photos have confirmed his participation after the actor had previously been evasive on the matter.
Spider-Man: A New Day is scheduled to premiere in theaters on July 31, 2026.
Source: iXBT.games