Hey there, Hulkamaniacs! Remember the days when Thursday nights meant settling in to watch David Banner grapple with his inner demons (and transform into a big, green rage monster)? The Incredible Hulk TV series, starring Bill Bixby and Lou Ferrigno, captured the hearts of audiences with its blend of superhero action and tragic storytelling. But what happened to the cast after the show ended its run? Let's dive in and see where the stars of The Incredible Hulk are today.

Bill Bixby as Dr. David Banner

Bill Bixby, the heart and soul of The Incredible Hulk, portrayed Dr. David Banner, a scientist who, after being exposed to gamma radiation, transforms into the Hulk when under stress. Bixby brought a remarkable depth and vulnerability to the role, making Banner a sympathetic and relatable character. Before The Incredible Hulk, Bixby was already a well-known face in television, having starred in sitcoms like My Favorite Martian and The Courtship of Eddie's Father. His comedic timing and dramatic range made him a versatile actor, but it was his portrayal of David Banner that solidified his place in television history.

Bixby's ability to convey Banner's inner turmoil, his constant search for a cure, and his desire to protect others from the Hulk's destructive power resonated with viewers. He wasn't just playing a scientist; he was embodying a man haunted by his condition, forever an outsider looking in. This nuanced performance earned him critical acclaim and a devoted fan base. Even after The Incredible Hulk ended its regular run in 1982, Bixby continued to reprise the role in several TV movies, further cementing his legacy as David Banner. These movies allowed for deeper exploration of Banner's character and provided closure for some of the storylines left unresolved by the series finale. In addition to acting, Bixby also directed several episodes of The Incredible Hulk, showcasing his talent behind the camera. His involvement in both acting and directing demonstrated his commitment to the show and his understanding of the character. Bixby's direction often emphasized the emotional aspects of the story, adding layers of complexity to the narrative.

Sadly, Bill Bixby passed away on November 21, 1993, at the age of 59, after battling prostate cancer. His death was a great loss to the entertainment industry and to his fans around the world. Despite his untimely passing, Bixby's legacy lives on through his work. His portrayal of David Banner remains iconic, and The Incredible Hulk continues to be a beloved series. Bixby's contributions to television extend beyond The Incredible Hulk. He left behind a diverse body of work that includes comedies, dramas, and made-for-television movies. His talent and versatility ensured that he would be remembered as one of the most talented actors of his generation.

Lou Ferrigno as The Hulk

Lou Ferrigno, the man who brought the Hulk's incredible physique to life, was already a well-known bodybuilder before landing the role. His imposing stature and muscular frame made him the perfect choice to portray the Hulk, the monstrous alter ego of David Banner. Ferrigno's portrayal of the Hulk was largely physical, relying on his body language and facial expressions to convey the character's rage and power. Despite not having any lines (aside from the occasional roar), Ferrigno managed to create a memorable and iconic depiction of the Hulk.

Before becoming the Hulk, Ferrigno had achieved considerable success in the world of bodybuilding. He won the title of Mr. Universe twice and competed against Arnold Schwarzenegger in the documentary Pumping Iron. His background in bodybuilding gave him the discipline and physique necessary to embody the Hulk. Ferrigno underwent a rigorous training regimen to maintain his physique throughout the show's run. This dedication to his physical appearance helped to create the imposing and believable presence of the Hulk on screen. While Ferrigno's portrayal of the Hulk was primarily physical, he also worked to convey the character's underlying vulnerability. The Hulk was not just a mindless brute; he was a creature of immense power who was often misunderstood and feared. Ferrigno's ability to project this sense of vulnerability added depth to the character and made him more sympathetic to audiences. After The Incredible Hulk, Ferrigno continued to act in various films and television shows, often playing characters who utilized his imposing physique. He also made numerous appearances as himself, capitalizing on his fame as the Hulk. In recent years, Ferrigno has reprised the role of the Hulk in voice-over work for animated series and video games, demonstrating the enduring appeal of his portrayal.

After The Incredible Hulk, Ferrigno continued to work in television and film, often playing roles that capitalized on his physique. He appeared in films like Hercules and Sinbad of the Seven Seas, and he made guest appearances on numerous TV shows. He also became a fitness advocate, promoting healthy living and exercise. In recent years, Ferrigno has remained active in the entertainment industry, making appearances at comic conventions and fan events. He has also reprised his role as the Hulk in voice-over work for animated projects, proving that he will always be associated with the character. Ferrigno's dedication to fitness and his continued involvement in the entertainment industry have made him a role model for many. He has shown that with hard work and determination, it is possible to achieve success in multiple fields.

Jack Colvin as Jack McGee

Jack Colvin played Jack McGee, the relentless reporter who was always on the trail of the Hulk. Colvin's portrayal of McGee was that of a determined and often unscrupulous journalist, driven by ambition and a desire to uncover the truth about the Hulk. While McGee was often portrayed as an antagonist, Colvin brought a certain level of complexity to the character, hinting at a sense of moral conflict beneath his hardened exterior. Before The Incredible Hulk, Colvin had a long and successful career in theater, film, and television. He was a versatile actor, capable of playing a wide range of roles. His experience in theater gave him a strong foundation in acting, which he brought to his portrayal of Jack McGee.

Colvin's ability to convey McGee's determination and ambition made him a compelling character, even though he was often at odds with David Banner. McGee's relentless pursuit of the Hulk created tension and suspense in the series, driving many of the storylines forward. Colvin's portrayal of McGee was not without its nuances. He often hinted at a sense of moral conflict within the character, suggesting that McGee was not entirely comfortable with his methods. This complexity added depth to the character and made him more than just a one-dimensional antagonist. After The Incredible Hulk, Colvin continued to work in television and film, appearing in a variety of roles. He also returned to the stage, where he continued to showcase his talents as an actor. Colvin's contributions to the entertainment industry were significant, and he will be remembered for his versatility and dedication to his craft. He passed away on December 1, 2005, leaving behind a legacy of memorable performances.

Jack Colvin passed away on December 1, 2005, but his portrayal of Jack McGee remains a memorable part of The Incredible Hulk series. McGee's relentless pursuit of the Hulk added a layer of suspense and intrigue to the show, and Colvin's performance ensured that he would be remembered as one of the series' most iconic characters. Colvin's career extended beyond The Incredible Hulk. He had a long and varied career in theater, film, and television. His versatility as an actor allowed him to take on a wide range of roles, showcasing his talent and dedication to his craft. Colvin's contributions to the entertainment industry were significant, and his legacy lives on through his work.

Other Notable Cast Members

While Bill Bixby, Lou Ferrigno, and Jack Colvin were the core cast members of The Incredible Hulk, several other actors made notable contributions to the series. Susan Sullivan, for example, played Dr. Elaina Marks in the pilot episode. Her character was instrumental in setting the stage for David Banner's transformation into the Hulk. Sullivan went on to have a successful career in television, starring in series like Falcon Crest and Dharma & Greg.

Nicholas Hormann appeared in multiple episodes as various doctors and scientists who crossed paths with David Banner. His performances added depth to the world of the series, highlighting the challenges and dangers that Banner faced in his search for a cure. Walter Brooke also made recurring appearances as newspaper editor Mr. Cronkite, providing a glimpse into the world of journalism and the media's fascination with the Hulk. His character added a layer of realism to the series, showing how the Hulk's existence would impact the world at large. These supporting actors, along with many others, helped to create the rich and engaging world of The Incredible Hulk. Their contributions should not be overlooked when considering the success and enduring appeal of the series.

The Enduring Legacy of The Incredible Hulk

The Incredible Hulk TV series may have ended its run decades ago, but its impact on popular culture is undeniable. The show's blend of superhero action, tragic storytelling, and compelling characters resonated with audiences of all ages, and it continues to be a beloved classic. The Incredible Hulk's success paved the way for other superhero television shows and movies, and it helped to solidify the Hulk's place as one of the most iconic characters in the Marvel universe.

Whether you're a longtime fan or a newcomer to the series, there's no denying the enduring appeal of The Incredible Hulk. So, next time you're looking for a dose of superhero nostalgia, be sure to check out this classic TV show and see why it continues to captivate audiences around the world.

So there you have it, guys! A little trip down memory lane with the cast of the original The Incredible Hulk TV series. It's always fun to see what happened to the actors who brought our favorite characters to life. Until next time, stay green!