The Incredible Hulk

by Michael RichComment — Updated August 3, 2023

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The Incredible Hulk

March 10, 1978 – June 2, 1982
(82) one hour episodes (5 seasons)
plus two pilot movies in 1977
in color CBS
Created by: Adapted from characters by Stan Lee and Jack Kirby
Developed and Produced by: Kenneth Johnson

Opening Narrative

(Ted Cassidy’s Voice): “Dr. David Banner. Physician. Scientist. Searching for a way to tap into the hidden strengths that all humans have. Then an accidental overdose of gamma radiation alters his body chemistry. And now, when David Banner grows angry or outraged, a startling metamorphosis occurs. The creature is driven by rage, and pursued by an investigative reporter.”

(Bill Bixby’s Voice): “Mr. McGee, don’t make me angry. You wouldn’t like me when I’m angry.”

(Ted Cassidy’s Voice): “The creature is wanted for a murder he didn’t commit. David Banner is believed to be dead, and he must let the world think that he is dead until he can find a way to control the raging spirit that dwells within him.”

CAST

  • Bill Bixby
  • Lou Ferrigno
  • Jack Colvin
  • Dr. David Banner
  • Hulk
  • Jack McGee

STORYLINE

Dr. David Banner (Bill Bixby) accidentally overdoses himself with gamma radiation while trying to unlock the mystery of how people can become superhumanly strong when faced with an emergency requiring that strength. Instead of simply becoming stronger Banner, when angered or stressed, turns into a 7 foot green monster, the incredible Hulk (Lou Ferrigno). He has no control when in his hulk state nor any memory of what he does as the Hulk.

Dr. Banner searches the country for a cure to his problem while taking odd jobs to live. It’s in these odd jobs that he usually finds a problem or crime which he try’s to help with requiring him to be in harms way. When things get hairy the hulk pops out and smashes his way clear of the problem, then poof Banner is back, wondering what happened.

An investigative reporter Jack McGee (Jack Colvin) relentlessly pursues poor Banner around the country trying to get proof that the Hulk exists. Banner has to keep his secret from the authorities, the reporter, his temporary employer and even the people he is helping all while trying to find a cure for his condition.

The concept of The Incredible Hulk originated at Marvel Comics created by Stan Lee Jack Kirby. The Hulk also is part of the Avengers super hero group. As is his style, Stan Lee had cameos in a couple of episodes.

Video Clip of The Incredible Hulk

Passings

Bill Bixby died in 1993 of prostate cancer, he was only 59
Jack Colvin passed away of complications of a stroke in 2005, he was only 711970s tv

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1970s Hulk tv show

TRIVIA:

Bill Bixby felt it was so important to protect the illusion to children and fans that he and the Hulk were the same person he would never be photographed with Lou Ferrigno while he was in his Hulk makeup, going so far as to leave the set whenever Ferrigno’s scenes were shot.

Similarly, since Bixby’s and Jack Colvin’s characters were arch enemies in the series Bixby was careful never to be seen socializing with Colvin in public even though they were good friends.

classic 1970s sci-fi tv

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