Mark Ruffalo asks fans to pray for his Avengers ‘brother’ Jeremy Renner

Mark Ruffalo has asked people to pray for Jeremy Renner following his snowplow accident.

The Avengers star was badly injured while out plowing snow near his home in Lake Tahoe on New Year's Day.

The 51-year-old had to be airlifted to hospital, where he underwent surgery and was said to be in a 'critical but stable condition'.

A representative for Renner confirmed that the actor had suffered injuries to his chest and remains in intensive care.

They told Deadline: "We can confirm that Jeremy has suffered blunt chest trauma and orthopedic injuries and has undergone surgery today, January 2nd 2023.

@jeremyrenner/Instagram

"He has returned from surgery and remains in the intensive care unit.

"Jeremy’s family would like to express their gratitude to the incredible doctors and nurses looking after him, Truckee Meadows Fire and Rescue, Washoe County Sheriff, Reno City Mayor Hillary Schieve and the Carano and Murdock families.

"They are also tremendously overwhelmed and appreciative of the outpouring of love and support from his fans.”

And now, Renner's co-star and friend, Mark Ruffalo, has come out and shared a message of support.

In a post to social media, the 55-year-old said he was thinking of his pal and hoping for a speedy recovery.

He said: "Prayers up for our brother on a full and speedy recovery. Please send healing goodness his way."

The Washoe County Sheriff’s Office confirmed in a statement that they 'responded to a traumatic injury in the area of Mt Rose Highway in Reno, Nevada'.

Sipa US/Alamy

They revealed Renner was the only person involved in the incident and an investigation is underway into the cause.

Renner owns several different snowplows and regularly posts content on social media where he can be seen clearing snow around his home.

"I have so much respect for Mother Earth, and Mother Nature... I expect to lose the fight but I'll always give it my best shot," he wrote on one video.

Since the accident, fans have been taking to Twitter to post messages of support for the actor.

One person wrote: "Shocking to hear Jeremy Renner is in critical condition, he is one of favourite actors in recent times. I hope he recovers soon enough."

While another said: "@JeremyRenner sending you all my thoughts and best wishes for your full and speedy recovery from your serious injuries. I am saddened to hear of your accident and am thinking of you and your family."