Marvel.com: We’ve seen in past issues of Totally Awesome Hulk how the powers and burden of being the Hulk transferred from Bruce Banner to Amadeus Cho. Now that Bruce is back for a couple issues, what can we expect to learn about his time away?
Greg Pak: We’ll reveal exactly what happens to Banner in the wake of losing his powers—with all the emotional turmoil and terrible danger that might imply. Has Amadeus given Banner the greatest gift of his life by stripping him of the Hulk—or just introduced the newest, cruelest version of his curse?
Marvel.com: How has no longer being the Hulk changed Bruce Banner?
Greg Pak: Banner goes through multiple stages during the course of the story. I can’t get too specific for fear of spoilers, but my editors encouraged me to dig deep. This is a big, emotional Banner story, and I hope you love it as much as we do.
Marvel.com: What's it been like for you, returning to the character of Bruce Banner in his current state?
Greg Pak: I’ve probably written more comics starring Bruce Banner than any other character on the planet. I love the guy, and it’s tremendous to write this particular story, which goes places I’ve never gone with him. I was able to write a depowered Banner before during the “Son of Banner” storyline, but never a story with Banner grappling with these specific challenges and mindset. It’s a big story and I’m grateful I got tapped to write it.
Marvel.com: In addition to the return of Bruce Banner, this is also a Civil War II tie-in. How does this story intersect with the main title? Will Banner and Cho have to choose a side?
Greg Pak: This story really serves as a critical prelude to Civil War II. We’ll dig deep into a direct, real-time tie-in starting with issue #9. Stay tuned!
Marvel.com: Is this the first time you’ve worked with artist Alan Davis? What's it been like collaborating on the story?
Greg Pak: This is indeed the first time we’ve worked together! And for me it’s a huge thrill. Alan’s a legend; I’ve loved his clean lines and seamless storytelling forever. I’ve just been going over all of the art for the issue again, and even without the letters, you can effortlessly follow the plot and really feel those emotional beats. That’s what you get when work with a legend. Thanks so much, Alan!
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