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Joss Whedon has confirmed that Jeremy Renner of The Hurt Locker will star as the superhero Hawkeye in Marvel Studios upcoming film The Avengers.

Rumours have recently circulated that the actor was in consideration for the part, but Marvel Studios had been keeping quiet about the film's supporting cast prior to the San Diego Comic-Con.

Comic Book Resources reports that Whedon said of the signing: "I think it's well-known that Jeremy Renner is joining us as Hawkeye, which is so exciting for me and the rest of the cast."

This news comes after various news outlets reported that Mark Ruffalo has also been signed to be Edward Norton's replacement as the Hulk in the film.

It is expected that the full cast of The Avengers will be announced today at Comic-Con.