Mark Ruffalo used a New York City rally to push back against what he called efforts to suppress voter turnout in the upcoming U.S. midterm elections, and reminded the crowd that his political outspokenness has not cost him his role as the Hulk in the Marvel Cinematic Universe.
The actor spoke at the “Hands Off Our Vote” event on October 4, encouraging Americans not to be intimidated at the polls. “They’re going to try and stop us from taking our country back and we’re not going to let them,” Ruffalo said, before leading the crowd in a chant directed at former President Donald Trump.
Ruffalo’s “Hulk Out” Warning to Voters
Ruffalo leaned into his Marvel persona to make his point. “Hands off our f***ing vote,” he told the crowd. “I’m gonna Hulk out. You won’t like me when I’m angry.” He then addressed speculation that his activism had put his career at risk, according to Mark Ruffalo Hulk political rally.
“Hey, I’m still here. They thought I was out for the count. I’m still here. I’m still playing the Hulk,” Ruffalo said. “Don’t be scared. They want to keep us afraid. Their only weapon is our fear. But when we see people step out, we can get courage.”
A Long Record of Speaking Out
Ruffalo has built a reputation as one of Hollywood’s most vocal activists, addressing issues ranging from environmental policy to the Iraq War under President George W. Bush to Israeli military actions against Palestine since 2014. More recently, he has criticized Paramount over its merger with Warner Bros.
Disney, which owns Marvel, has faced pressure over the years regarding political statements made by people it employs. The company drew widespread attention after temporarily suspending late night host Jimmy Kimmel, a move that sparked a public backlash. Ruffalo has previously stated he is willing to sacrifice his Hollywood career for the causes he supports.
What Comes Next for Ruffalo and the MCU
Despite any controversy, Ruffalo remains a central figure in Marvel’s biggest releases. He currently appears in two record-breaking blockbusters: Spider-Man: Brand New Day, which has grossed $2.5 billion, and Avengers: Endgame, which has earned $2.9 billion and features a new post-credits scene with the Hulk.
Ruffalo closed his rally speech with a direct challenge to those trying to discourage turnout. “They’re going to do everything they can to make us feel small. They’re going to do anything they can to make us feel lost, to make it feel inevitable. It’s not inevitable. We’re inevitable. The truth is inevitable.”
