Few shows in TV history have had the raw impact of The Incredible Hulk, the series that first aired in 1977 and continued through five memorable seasons until 1982. This adaptation of the Marvel Comics character, starring Bill Bixby as Dr. David Banner and Lou Ferrigno as the Hulk, gave viewers a weekly dive into the world of an intelligent, gentle scientist wrestling with an uncontrollable, superhuman alter ego. Even today, the show’s iconic line, “Don’t make me angry! You wouldn’t like me when I’m angry!” continues to resonate with fans, cementing the series as one of the most memorable entries in superhero television history.
Watching The Incredible Hulk was a ritual in our home. My late father, Tyrone Reed Sr., and I would sit down together, captivated by Bixby’s portrayal of Dr. Banner—his struggle, his humanity, and his endless journey to rid himself of the Hulk. My dad and I shared this love for the show, and looking back, those moments became something so meaningful for me. Seeing the green, roaring Hulk burst onto the screen, or hearing the melancholy theme song “The Lonely Man” play in the background as Banner walked away, always had a way of bringing us together.
The Premise
In The Incredible Hulk, Dr. David Banner’s life changes forever after he accidentally overdoses on gamma radiation during an experiment to unlock hidden human strength. The result? A monstrous transformation whenever he becomes angry or stressed. Dr. Banner is thus doomed to live as a fugitive, wandering from town to town under a false identity, always searching for a cure to rid himself of the Hulk while evading Jack McGee (Jack Colvin), a relentless reporter convinced that the Hulk is a deadly menace.
Bill Bixby’s nuanced performance as Banner was essential in capturing the tragic duality of the character, bringing emotional depth and a sense of humanity that kept fans tuning in week after week. Lou Ferrigno’s portrayal of the Hulk himself was equally iconic, a force of raw power, frustration, and a surprising gentleness at times. Together, they brought an authenticity to the story of a man forced to confront the literal embodiment of his anger and strength—a theme that resonates even today.
The Theme Song: "The Lonely Man"
No one can think of The Incredible Hulk without hearing “The Lonely Man” theme, composed by Joe Harnell. It became a hallmark of the series, played during those solitary moments when Dr. Banner would leave yet another town, another friend, or another almost-happy ending. The haunting piano melody underscored the sorrowful, isolated life Banner led, symbolizing the burdens he carried and the sacrifices he made along the way. The theme always felt deeply connected to the character’s emotional journey, and even now, it brings back a flood of memories. For my father and me, that song wasn’t just background music—it became the sound of Banner’s quest, a poignant reminder that the struggle for peace can sometimes be a lonely one.
Guest Stars and TV Movies
Throughout its five-season run, The Incredible Hulk featured several notable guest stars who crossed paths with Dr. Banner. Actors such as William Daniels, Pat Morita, and a young Kim Cattrall made appearances, enriching the episodes with their unique talents. The guest stars often played ordinary people whose lives were changed after encountering Dr. Banner and the Hulk, giving each episode an emotional depth that made the series feel fresh and grounded. These characters highlighted the humanity of the Hulk, showing us the monster’s complex nature through the eyes of those around him.
After the show ended, The Incredible Hulk lived on through a series of TV movies that reignited my excitement and love for the character. The movies—The Incredible Hulk Returns (1988), The Trial of the Incredible Hulk (1989), and The Death of the Incredible Hulk (1990)—gave us another chance to see Bixby and Ferrigno reprise their roles, this time with guest appearances by other Marvel heroes, including Thor and Daredevil. Watching these with my dad was like getting a reunion with old friends, bringing back the memories and the excitement of our time watching the series together.
The movies added a thrilling dimension to the Hulk universe, especially in The Incredible Hulk Returns, where Hulk faces off against Thor. Seeing two iconic Marvel heroes on screen was unforgettable for a young fan like me. But these movies were more than just superhero crossovers—they served as an emotional closing chapter to Banner’s journey, leaving a legacy of heroism and strength that I carry with me to this day.
Why The Incredible Hulk Endures
For me, The Incredible Hulk is more than a classic superhero story; it’s a deeply personal reminder of time spent with my father, whose own strength and patience mirrored what I saw in Dr. Banner. My father and I bonded over those weekly episodes, and each rerun or TV movie that aired was a chance for us to relive those moments together. This show taught me that strength isn’t just physical; it’s about finding the will to keep going, even when the world feels like it’s against you. Just as Banner traveled alone, shouldering his burden, my dad taught me the importance of resilience and compassion, values that The Incredible Hulk captured so well.
This timeless series showed me that we all have our “Hulks”—parts of ourselves that we may struggle to control but must learn to accept. The story of Dr. Banner is one of empathy, sacrifice, and understanding one’s own nature, and it’s no wonder that The Incredible Hulk has left a lasting impact on fans around the world, myself included.
The Legacy of Bill Bixby and Lou Ferrigno
Bill Bixby and Lou Ferrigno brought incredible authenticity to the roles of Banner and the Hulk. Bixby’s performance added a sense of dignity and warmth, while Ferrigno’s Hulk balanced ferocity with surprising vulnerability. Together, they created a character who wasn’t just a superhero but a deeply relatable figure battling his inner demons. Bixby’s tragic death in 1993 marked the end of an era, but his portrayal lives on as the definitive version of Dr. David Banner.
Lou Ferrigno’s portrayal of the Hulk made him a household name and a fan favorite. His dedication to the role continues, as he has been involved in the Marvel Cinematic Universe films as a voice artist for the Hulk, maintaining his connection to the character and legacy he helped establish.
What The Incredible Hulk Means to Me
Even now, watching The Incredible Hulk transports me back to those evenings with my dad, where we’d sit and marvel at the trials of Dr. Banner. It wasn’t just about the action or the transformation scenes—it was about seeing a character who faced his struggles head-on, despite the odds. My dad and I didn’t just watch a show; we connected through a shared love of Banner’s story and the lessons of resilience, kindness, and strength it offered.
To this day, The Incredible Hulk remains close to my heart. It’s a piece of my childhood, a connection to my dad, and a reminder of the power of storytelling. The series may have ended, but its themes, its music, and that unforgettable warning—“Don’t make me angry! You wouldn’t like me when I’m angry!”—continue to inspire and resonate. For me, this show will always be a timeless classic, a source of fond memories, and a testament to the heroism we all have inside us, waiting to be unleashed.
If you’re a fan of The Incredible Hulk, you’ll find more stories of courage and complex heroes in S.O.L.A.D.™: Soldiers of Light Against Darkness™. Discover characters like David Bruce Banner and their own battles against darkness. Get your autographed copy today at www.tyronetonyreedjr.com/the-shop and join the adventure!
Comments