Statham suggested his grandmother could strap on a cape and a costume and play Thor or Iron Man because there's so many computer effects added, the actor only really needs to read from his or her script.

Bettany, who plays Vision in the Avengers franchise for Marvel Studios, took exception to the Transporter star's remarks, insisting there are times when he's not allowed to do stunt work for insurance reasons.

Appearing on U.S. late-night show Conan on Tuesday (15Sep15), he said, "I try and do as many of the stunts as I can myself, but there are times when it's too dangerous or too tricky, and even the producer says, 'This is too dangerous and tricky for you...'

"I read the contract; they employed me as an actor. There's obviously stuntmen in the world... and they're very good at what they do, so let them do it."

Bettany then insisted he hates talking "smack" about a fellow movie star, telling host Conan O'Brien, "He's (Statham) brilliant at what he does; I couldn't do it...", but he poked fun at him by questioning his acting talents.

Bettany added, "Potentially, he should maybe think about investing in, like, an acting double... If there's some really, really tricky scene with some very tricky dialogue, one might consider bringing in an acting double for Jason Statham.

"He's very butch, I don't wanna be beaten up by him. I'll bring a stunt double."