Mark Ruffalo Reveals Why a Solo Hulk Movie May Never Happen

Legal Limbo: The Rights Blocking Hulk’s Solo Return

For Marvel fans, the Hulk isn’t just a character—he’s an icon. The green Avenger has smashed his way through comic book history, left a massive mark on the big screen, and, for more than a decade, found new life in Mark Ruffalo’s nuanced portrayal. But one question continues to echo across fandom: will there ever be a standalone Hulk movie with Ruffalo in the lead?

In a recent interview with GQ, Ruffalo pulled back the curtain on the perennial rumor. His answer was candid, and for many, a bit heartbreaking. “Honestly, I’m not sure if it will ever happen,” he admitted. The issue isn’t a lack of interest from the actor or the audience—it’s tangled up in Hollywood’s legal webs. Despite Hulk’s central role in the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU), the character’s film rights remain with Universal Pictures, not Marvel Studios. That means any solo Hulk project would require a level of collaboration and negotiation rarely seen in the industry.

“It’s not really owned by Marvel,” Ruffalo explained, “I don’t know if you know the story of that, but it’s a Universal property.” The actor’s frankness highlights a longstanding corporate impasse: Marvel can feature Hulk in ensemble films, but a standalone adventure is off-limits unless Universal signs off.

Does the World Need Another Hulk Movie?

Ruffalo’s perspective is thoughtful and self-aware. He acknowledged the weight of Hulk’s cinematic past, noting, “There are so many Hulk movies already. Does anyone really want another one?” It’s a fair question—one that invites fans to reflect on what fresh ground a new film could cover. The last attempt, The Incredible Hulk (2008), starred Edward Norton and remains a canonical part of the MCU, even as Ruffalo has since taken over the role. References to that film still pop up, such as in Captain America: Brave New World, but so far, Ruffalo’s Banner hasn’t headlined a solo outing.

Despite the hurdles, Ruffalo doesn’t rule out the possibility entirely. “I would be thrilled to do one,” he said, “and I believe audiences would be interested if we could figure it out.” The desire is there, both from the actor and the fans—but the legal and creative complications make it a long shot.

Beyond the Gamma Rays: Ruffalo’s Dramatic Depth in ‘Task’

While the Hulk’s future is uncertain, Ruffalo’s career is anything but stagnant. Outside the Marvel universe, he’s been earning critical acclaim for his work in HBO’s streaming series Task. Here, Ruffalo steps into the shoes of Tom Brandis, an FBI agent navigating the tangled emotional and moral terrain of a fractured family and a criminal underworld.

Ruffalo’s performance in the show’s finale drew particular praise. In a powerful courtroom scene, his character reads a heartfelt letter to his incarcerated adopted son, Ethan, offering forgiveness for a tragedy that tore their family apart. “Simpler was more powerful,” Ruffalo reflected in an interview with USA Today, describing the months of preparation that went into the scene. The moment, marked by compassion and closure, resonated with viewers as a testament to Ruffalo’s range beyond superhero roles.

The finale also saw Brandis choosing empathy over strict adherence to the law, allowing Maeve (played by Emilia Jones) to escape with her nieces, aided by a stash of drug money. “It’s not to the detriment of anybody,” Ruffalo defended the choice, emphasizing the complex gray areas of justice and mercy.

What’s Next: Banner’s Return and Ruffalo’s Path Forward

Though a solo Hulk film remains elusive, Ruffalo isn’t finished with the MCU. Fans can look forward to his return in Spider-Man: Brand New Day, set for release in 2026. The film will see him reprise his role as Bruce Banner alongside Tom Holland and Zendaya, marking 14 years since Ruffalo first joined the Marvel franchise in The Avengers (2012).

His off-screen relationship with Holland has grown into a playful friendship, with both actors notorious for accidentally spilling plot secrets. Their chemistry promises to bring a fresh dynamic to the upcoming Spider-Man adventure.

As for Ruffalo, his willingness to tackle complex roles—whether as a superhero wrestling with his dual identity or an FBI agent confronting the messy realities of family and forgiveness—keeps audiences guessing what he’ll do next.

Mark Ruffalo’s career demonstrates that sometimes, the most compelling stories aren’t about smashing cities or saving the world, but about navigating the fragile space between hope and reality. Whether or not the Hulk ever stands alone again, Ruffalo’s work reminds us that true heroism is found in vulnerability, empathy, and the courage to ask difficult questions.