In a recent interview with High Snobiety, Mark Ruffalo revealed a surprising aspect of his casting in the 2007 film Zodiac. The actor stated that a studio representative made it clear that they didn’t particularly want him in the Paramount Pictures film, saying, “Look, we don’t give a shit about Mark Ruffalo, we don’t even want Mark Ruffalo in this movie, so you’re going to take what we’re offering you or forget it.” Despite this initial reluctance, Ruffalo went on to portray Detective David Toschi in the movie.
Zodiac, directed by David Fincher, follows two reporters, played by Jake Gyllenhaal and Robert Downey Jr., as they become obsessed with tracking down the Zodiac Killer, an unidentified murderer who went on a killing spree in San Francisco in the 1970s. Ruffalo’s role in the film was pivotal to the storyline and showcased his acting abilities, despite the studio’s initial reservations.
Ruffalo also mentioned that his experience with the Marvel Cinematic Universe was unexpected, as he never envisioned himself playing the role of Hulk. He recounted how Joss Whedon approached him for the role, which was a departure from the typical romantic comedy roles he had been offered in the past. Ruffalo’s portrayal of the Hulk in several MCU films has been a pivotal part of his career, allowing him to explore new and diverse roles that he may not have had the opportunity to pursue without his involvement in the superhero franchise.
In the interview, Ruffalo also discussed his determination to break out of the romantic comedy box that he felt Hollywood had placed him in after his early career successes in films like 13 Going on 30 and Just Like Heaven. He expressed his desire to avoid being typecast and to showcase his versatility as an actor. Ruffalo’s commitment to taking on a wide range of roles has allowed him to challenge industry expectations and pursue diverse and compelling characters throughout his career.
Reflecting on his journey, Ruffalo expressed his gratitude for the opportunities that playing the Hulk has afforded him. He noted that the experience has opened doors for him to pursue other projects that he may not have otherwise had access to. His role in the MCU has been a catalyst for him to explore a broader range of roles and genres, demonstrating his ability to thrive in diverse and challenging performances.
Overall, Ruffalo’s career trajectory has been shaped by his willingness to break free from industry expectations and pursue a diverse range of roles. His experience with Zodiac and the Marvel Cinematic Universe has not only showcased his talent as an actor but has also allowed him to challenge traditional perceptions of his abilities. Despite initial studio reluctance and typecasting, Mark Ruffalo’s career has been a testament to his versatility and determination to constantly push boundaries in his craft.
