The Incredible Hulk featured a swathe of thrilling cameos and team-ups, some of which included beloved characters from the Marvel Cinematic Universe.
The Incredible Hulk animated series featured a litany of famed Marvel Comics characters, many of whom would later make pivotal appearances in the Marvel Cinematic Universe. As one of Marvel’s greatest animated series, The Incredible Hulk boasted numerous great episodes. These often included characters from across the Marvel universe, some of whom would become highly consequential figures in the MCU timeline.
The Incredible Hulk was a celebrated entrant in Marvel’s shared animated universe from the 1990s. It depicted the efforts of Bruce Banner to separate himself from the fearsome rage-fueled behemoth known as the Hulk. Bruce was often aided by his romantic partner Betty Ross and his friend Rick Jones, who tried valiantly to help Bruce navigate his complex identity issues and appearances of both Green Hulk and Grey Hulk. During this, the Hulk encountered a swathe of famed Marvel heroes and villains, some of whom are primed to play a huge role in the MCU’s future.
10. Iron Man Fought The Hulk And Aided Banner
The Incredible Hulk Season 1, Episode 5 “Helping Hand, Iron Fist”
In The IncredibleHulk animated series, Iron Man’s appearance adds a dynamic twist as Banner seeks aid from Tony Stark in Los Angeles. However, a gripping turn of events unfolds when the Hulk is struck by amnesia, exacerbating Banner’s plight and leading to a confrontation with Iron Man. Tension escalates as the formidable Hulkbusters, alongside Gabe Jones, converge on Stark Enterprises, intending to apprehend Banner.
Stark’s intervention becomes crucial not only in aiding Banner, but also in navigating the volatile situation wrought by the Hulk’s unpredictable state. Iron Man’s presence injects a sense of urgency, highlighting the precarious balance between Banner’s quest for a cure and the relentless pursuit of those seeking to contain the Hulk. In the chaos, Stark’s ingenuity and prowess as Iron Man emerge as pivotal elements in confronting the threat and unraveling the mysteries shrouding the Hulk’s condition throughout The Incredible Hulk.
9. War Machine Fights Alongside Iron Man
The Incredible Hulk Season 1, Episode 5 “Helping Hand, Iron Fist”
War Machine’s appearance in The Incredible Hulk animated series packs a punch. Like Iron Man, War Machine’s voice actor reprized his role from Iron Man: The Animated Series. War Machine’s entrance into The Incredible Hulk alongside Iron Man is thrilling, and sets the stage well for highlighting some of the coolest aspects of the character. As Stark Enterprises faces the Hulkbusters’ onslaught, War Machine’s formidable presence bolsters their defense. Clad in his iconic armor, he stands as a beacon of stoic resilience compared the Hulk’s rage.
Each metallic clash and energy blast echoes the intensity of the battle in the classic The Incredible Hulk episode. War Machine’s sleek design exudes power, matching his unwavering resolve to protect the innocent. His inclusion elevates the stakes, adding depth to the confrontation and highlighting the unity of Earth’s mightiest heroes. As the chaos unfolds, War Machine emerges as a vital ally, proving that even in the face of overwhelming odds, heroes stand united.
8. Doctor Strange Starred In A Mystical Adventure
The Incredible Hulk Season 2, Episode 3 “Mind Over Anti-Matter”
The mystical realm intertwines with earthly turmoil as Doctor Strange makes a captivating appearance in The Incredible Hulk animated series. When Bruce Banner falls victim to a malevolent force seeking a formidable vessel in “Mind Over Anti-Matter,” She-Hulk turns to the Sorcerer Supreme for help. Voiced with mystique and authority, Doctor Strange’s presence heralds a unique blend of magic and intellect.
As the battle against the dark entity escalates, Strange’s mastery of the arcane arts becomes the linchpin in their struggle. With She-Hulk by his side, their alliance depicts a fusion of strength and sorcery. Doctor Strange’s enigmatic aura and spellbinding abilities weave a mesmerizing tapestry during the maelstrom, bringing a fresh dynamic to The Incredible Hulk. Together, they confront the darkness within Banner, demonstrating their unified power against adversaries even from beyond the realms of mortal comprehension.
7. Thor Battles The Incredible Hulk
The Incredible Hulk Season 1, Episode 9 “Mortal Bounds”
Thor’s arrival in The Incredible Hulk animated series heralds a clash of titans against the looming threat of the gamma virus. With Bruce Banner holding the key to its cure, the danger soars when he falls into the clutches of Gargoyle and Abomination. As Detroit’s fate hangs in the balance, the Hulk faces his greatest challenge yet. Enter Thor, the thunderous god of Asgard, whose hammer strikes like a tempest against the forces of darkness.
While Thor’s alter ego, Dr Donald Blake, works tirelessly to halt the gamma virus, it takes Thor to meet and subdue the mighty Hulk. Together, Hulk and Thor forge an uneasy alliance, their powers united in a battle for humanity’s survival. Voiced in The Incredible Hulk with the gravitas befitting the character, Thor’s presence electrifies the screen as a delightful precursor to the pair’s iconic clashes in movies like The Avengers and Thor: Ragnarok.
6. Glenn Talbot Was A Central Figure In The Incredible Hulk
The Incredible Hulk Season 1, Episodes 1-2 “Return Of The Beast;” Episode 3 “Raw Power;” Episode 4 “Helping Hand, Iron Fist;” Episode 5 “Innocent Blood;” Episode 7 “Doomed;” Episode 10 “When The Wind Cries… Wendigo!” Episodes 11-13 “Darkness And Light”
In The Incredible Hulk, Major Glenn Talbot emerges as a central figure, serving as General Ross’ steadfast ally in the relentless pursuit of the Hulk. Throughout the first season, Talbot’s unwavering dedication to capturing the green behemoth drives him to the forefront of every operation. Voiced with authority and determination, his presence commands attention as he strategizes alongside Ross. Talbot’s character is defined by his dogged pursuit of the Hulk, often pushing the boundaries of morality to achieve his goals.
Yet, beneath Talbot’s rigid exterior lies a complexity that hints at deeper motivations. As The Incredible Hulk unfolds, Talbot’s role evolves, mirroring the shifting dynamics of the conflict. His character arc adds depth to the narrative, exploring the internal struggles within the military hierarchy of the show. Talbot subsequently appeared prominently in the MCU in Agents of SHIELD, where he was played by Adrian Pasdar.
5. General Ross Was A Fearsome Presence Throughout The Incredible Hulk
The Incredible Hulk Season 1, Episodes 1-2 “Return Of The Beast;” Episode 3 “Raw Power;” Episode 4 “Helping Hand, Iron Fist;” Episode 6 “Man To Man, Beast To Beast;” Episode 7 “Doomed;” Episode 9 “Mortal Wounds;” Episode 10 “When The Wind Cries… Wendigo!” Episodes 11-13 “Darkness And Light;” Season 2, Episode 1 “Hulk Of A Different Color;” Episode 8 “Mission: Incredible”
In The Incredible Hulk, General Thadeus “Thunderbolt” Ross looms large as an insidious antagonist throughout the first season. With an unwavering determination to capture the Hulk, Ross becomes a relentless force, pushing boundaries to achieve his goals while struggling to maintain a relationship with his daughter, Betty Ross. His strategic brilliance and military prowess make him a formidable adversary, constantly testing the Hulk and Bruce Banner’s limits.
Despite his antagonistic nature throughout The Incredible Hulk, Ross’s motivations hint at deeper complexities, showcasing the moral gray areas within his character. Through Ross, the series delves into themes of power, control, and the blurred lines between heroism and villainy. Notably, in subsequent MCU movies, Ross’ character was portrayed by William Hurt, though following his passing, “Thunderbolt” Ross was recast with Harrison Ford, ensuring Ross’s legacy endures with a new interpretation.
4. Doc Samson Was The Hulks Steadfast Ally
The Incredible Hulk Season 1, Episode 3 “Raw Power;” Episode 5 “Innocent Blood;” Episode 9 “Mortal Wounds;” Episode 10 “When The Wind Cries… Wendigo!” Episodes 11-13 “Darkness And Light”
Doc Samson is a pivotal figure in The Incredible Hulk, blending intellect with gamma-infused might. Throughout the first season, Doc Samson serves as one of the Hulk’s staunchest allies. With unwavering determination, he tirelessly pursues the elusive goal of separating Bruce Banner from his green alter ego. Endowed with his own gamma-ray-induced powers, Samson’s formidable strength and resilience make him a force to be reckoned with.
Samson fought alongside the Hulk in a series of captivating adventures. Samson played a central role, assisting in the Hulk’s encounters with the Hulkbusters, Wendigo, Ghost Rider, and Thor. In the MCU’s The Incredible Hulk, Doc Samson appeared as Betty Ross’s new romantic partner following Bruce Banner’s disappearance. Portrayed by Ty Burrell, this incarnation is not yet bestowed with his superpowers, but remains a memorable character in the debut MCU movie.
3. Abomination Was A Persistent Threat In The Incredible Hulk
The Incredible Hulk Season 1, Episodes 1-2 “Return Of The Beast;” Episode 9 “Mortal Bounds;” Episodes 11-13 “Darkness And Light;” Season 2, Episode 1 “Hulk Of A Different Color;” Episode 2 “Down Memory Lane;” Episode 5 “Fashion Warriors;”
Abomination serves as a fearsome antagonist throughout The Incredible Hulk, appearing in nine gripping episodes across both seasons. Serving as one of the Leader’s formidable cronies, his brute strength and cunning tactics pose a constant threat to the green hero. In numerous dynamic narratives, Abomination’s clashes with the Hulk unfold with intensity, highlighting their relentless pursuit to defeat each other.
With each encounter in The Incredible Hulk animated series, the tension ratchets up as their battles escalate to epic proportions – Abomination even managing to overpower and even capture the Hulk. Notably, Abomination’s menacing portrayal in the series parallels his portrayal in the Marvel Cinematic Universe, where he initially appeared in The Incredible Hulk before resurfacing in Shang-Chi and the Legend of the Ten Rings. Across both mediums, Abomination remains a chilling embodiment of villainy, leaving an indelible mark on the Hulk’s story.
2. The Leader Is A Primary Antagonist In The Incredible Hulk
The Incredible Hulk Season 1, Episodes 1-2 “Return Of The Beast;” Episode 5 “Innocent Blood;” Episode 8 “Fantastic Fortitude;” Episodes 11-13 “Darkness And Light;” Season 2, Episode 1 “Hulk Of A Different Color;” Episode 2 “Down Memory Lane;” Episode 5 “Fashion Warriors”
The Leader was a notable antagonist throughout The Incredible Hulk, weaving a web of schemes to harness the hero’s mighty power. The Leader appears in many memorable episodes in the first season and a handful in The Incredible Hulk season 2. Voiced with a sinister cunning, the Leader orchestrates relentless attacks, employing minions like the Abomination and the Gargoyle to further his malevolent agenda.
With each confrontation, the Leader’s obsession with acquiring Hulk’s power intensifies, driving the conflict to new heights of tension and spectacle. This portrayal paved the way for the Leader’s live-action debut in the MCU, portrayed by Tim Blake Nelson. This version works to assist Bruce Banner in his experiments, with his descent into villainy teased when he’s infected with the Hulk’s DNA. This version seemed forgotten, until it was announced that Nelson would reprise his role in 2025’s Captain America: Brave New World, appearing alongside Harrison Ford’s General Ross
1. She-Hulk Becomes A Main CHaracter In The Incredible Hulk
The Incredible Hulk Season 1, Episode 7 “Doomed;” Episode 8 “Fantastic Fortitude;” Season 2, Episodes 1-8
In the first season of The Incredible Hulk animated series, She-Hulk’s transformation is depicted with impeccable and thrilling detail, capturing the essence of her character’s strength and resilience. As the series progresses into its second season, She-Hulk emerges as a dynamic mainstay in every episode. Her encounters with Doctor Strange and the Fantastic Four were especially enjoyable, highlighting her versatility as both a formidable ally and a force to be reckoned with.
She-Hulk’s interactions with other iconic Marvel characters enrich the series, offering fans a tantalizing glimpse into a world where heroes unite against common threats. As She-Hulk takes center stage, her impact reverberates throughout the series, cementing her status as a beloved and integral part of The Incredible Hulk. She-Hulk debuted in the MCU in She-Hulk: Attorney at Law, and though the series currently looks unlikely to have a second season, Kevin Feige has stated that She-Hulk will transition into the cinematic realm as a central figure in the Marvel Cinematic Universe.
