Bruce Banner (Marvel Cinematic Universe)

Bruce Banner, more commonly known by his alter ego the Hulk, is a fictional character in the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU) media franchise originally portrayed by Edward Norton and subsequently by Mark Ruffalo—based on the Marvel Comics character of the same name. Banner is depicted as a genius physicist who, after a failed experiment to replicate a super soldier program using gamma radiation, metamorphosis into a large, muscular humanoid creature with green skin whenever his heart rate goes above 200 beats per minute, he is angered, or when facing mortal danger. As the Hulk, he possesses superhuman abilities, including increased strength and durability.

Over time, Banner demonstrates an increasing ability to control the transformation and becomes a founding member of the Avengers. Following a conflict with Ultron, Banner is transported to Sakaar, where he remains as the Hulk for several years. After reuniting with Thor, he eventually returns to Earth during the conflict against Thanos. In the years following the Blip, Banner learns to retain the Hulk form with his mind still intact. He assists the Avengers in time travelling to obtain the Infinity Stones from the past to undo Thanos' actions. Banner uses the Stones in a specially-made Nano Gauntlet to restore the lives lost, before participating in a final and victorious battle against Thanos. He later trains his cousin Jennifer Walters who is accidentally imbued with his blood before departing again to Sakaar and meeting his son, Skaar.

Banner has become a central character within the MCU, having appeared in nine films as of 2025, as well as the Disney+ streaming series She-Hulk: Attorney at Law. The character was introduced in the titular film The Incredible Hulk (2008), portrayed by Edward Norton before being recast to Mark Ruffalo. The character has been generally well-received by critics and audiences alike, but his inconsistent characterization has received some criticism. Additionally, Ruffalo voices several alternate versions of Banner in the animated series What If...?.