YEAH, THAT’S NICE. BUT HE SHOULD TRY TO LEARN SOMETHING FROM THE EXPERIENCE: Mark Ruffalo on feminists attacking Joss Whedon: ‘It hurts him.’

Actor Mark Ruffalo, who plays the Incredible Hulk in the Avengers movies, defended Joss Whedon on Wednesday from attacks that the beloved director is anti-woman.

Ruffalo made the defense during a Reddit “Ask Me Anything,” when he was asked about the recent controversy over Whedon’s portrayal of Black Widow in “Avengers: Age of Ultron.”

“I think it’s sad,” Ruffalo said. “Because I know how Joss feels about women, and I know that he’s made it a point to create strong female characters.”

The issue came to a boil on Monday when Whedon suddenly quit Twitter. For hours people (including this writer) wondered whether it was due to the criticism — and death threats — Whedon received over his new film. On Tuesday, Whedon brushed off the notion, calling it “horses–t,” before also calling out feminists for attacking other feminists.

Ruffalo described Whedon as a “deeply committed feminist,” and noted that he believes the anger has more to do with a lack of strong female superheroes.

The anger isn’t the result of anything. The anger comes first, then comes the search for targets. And, Joss: If they’re attacking you unfairly, maybe . . . work with me here. . . they’re attacking other people unfairly, too.