Hulkhas appeared in so many different projects that even the most ardent Hulk fan would have missed some thrilling adventures. The Hulk has been one ofMarvel’s most recognizable characters from the Marvel pantheon. While most audiences remember major adaptations likeThe Incredible Hulk(1978) or the MCU’s Hulk portrayal by Mark Ruffalo, there are many lesser-known cameos and guest spots that have slipped under the radar across both animated and live-action movies and shows,
The Hulk’s history on television and in films extends far beyond his solo projects and has been an entertainment mainstay since long beforethe MCU timeline. Often appearing in team-ups, guest episodes, and obscure animated series, the Green Goliath has popped up in places even die-hard fans might not expect. From early animated experiments to modern-day reinterpretations, these appearances provide a fascinating glimpse into how different creators have handled the character. Whether it’s a brief fight scene or a supporting role, these moments showcase the range of Bruce Banner’s alter ego in the Marvel universe.
WhileWolverine and the X-Menprimarily focused on Wolverine’s leadership of the mutant team, one episode featured a showdown with the Hulk. In episode 7,“Wolverine vs. Hulk,“Nick Fury as Logan a favor, to deal with a rampaging Hulk –evoking their classic comic book rivalries. The battle showcases their respective strengths, with Wolverine’s claws struggling against the Hulk’s raw power.
10 Biggest Times The Incredible Hulk Lost A Fight In Movies & TV
Hulk is known as a formidable powerhouse, a fearsome opponent for any foe. Yet, in spite of this, he has been defeated on some notable occasions.
Interestingly, the episode also weaves in elements fromUltimate Wolverine vs. Hulk, a comic series where Logan is literally torn in half by the Jade Giant. Instead of this, the pair ultimately end up working together when the Wendigo is introduced. WhileX-Men ‘97had a short run, this forgotten Hulk appearance remainsa must-watch for fans of Marvel’s animated battles. The episode also hints at Bruce Banner’s internal struggle, adding depth to his character beyond just a mindless brawler.
One of the earliest animated versions of the Hulk appeared inThe Marvel Super Heroes(1966), an anthology-style series featuring five different Marvel characters. The Hulk’s segment adapted early Stan Lee and Jack Kirby stories, complete with minimal animation that relied heavily on comic book panel transitions, serving asa precursor to modern motion comics. Though primitive by modern standards, this series marked the Green Goliath’s first animated foray, giving audiences an early taste of his rage-filled adventures.
These episodes often featured his clashes with General Thunderbolt Ross, Betty Ross, and villains like the Leader and the Gargoyle. Due to its obscure status and dated animation style, many fans have never seen these early Hulk appearances. However, theyremain an important part of Marvel’s television history, laying the groundwork for later animated versions of the character.
8Spider-Man And His Amazing Friends Season 1, Episode 17 “Spidey Goes Hollywood”
Hulk Teams Up With Spidey
InSpider-Man and His Amazing Friends, Hulk made a memorable but often overlooked appearance in the episode “Spidey Goes Hollywood.” The story follows Spider-Man, Iceman, and Firestar as they’rerecruited for a superhero-themed moviedirected by none other than Mysterio in disguise. The episode takes a surprising turn when Mysterio deploys a robotic Hulk in the movie, only to draw the ire of the real Green Goliath.
10 Biggest Ways The MCU Hulk’s Story Has Changed Since His Movie Debut
The Hulk has been through a lot of changes since he debuted in the MCU in 2008’s The Incredible Hulk, with a markedly different story now.
While Hulk is initially uncontrollable, his presence adds a thrilling element to the episode. This guest appearance captures the spirit of Marvel’s interconnected universe, showcasing Hulk as both a threat and an eventual ally. Given thatSpider-Man and His Amazing Friendsprimarily focused on lighthearted storytelling, seeing the Hulk in this setting wasa fun and unexpected surprise. The episode also led to Hulk receiving his own animated series inThe Incredible Hulk.
InX-Men ‘97, the shape-shifting mutant Morph takes on many forms, but in season 1, episode 9, he briefly transforms into the Hulk. This moment pays homage to the shared history between Marvel’s mutants and the green behemoth,flaunting the hero’s formidable strength and powerin a gripping battle Mister Sinister and the Sentinels. While Hulk himself does not appear in the series as a primary character, this cameo stands out as a fun Easter egg for longtime Hulk fans.
Morph’s transformation is used strategically during a fight sequence, showcasing the brute strength of the Hulk in animated form. This nod also references the classicX-Men: The Animated Seriesera, whereHulk had a few indirect connections with the team. While brief, this cameo is another reminder of the interconnected Marvel universe, where even the Hulk can pop up in the most unexpected places.
Hulk Vs. Wolverineis a brutal animated showdown thathighlights the savage side of both iconic Marvel brawlers. Released in 2009 as part of theHulk Vs.animated feature, this film takes inspiration from Wolverine’s first comic book appearance inThe Incredible Hulk #181(1974). The story follows Wolverine as he is sent by the Canadian government to track down the rampaging Hulk, only to discover that Weapon X has sinister plans for them both.
10 Best Quotes From The Incredible Hulk Animated Series
The Incredible Hulk animated series from the 1990s proffered a litany of classic quotations from Hulk, his supporting characters, and his foes.
The film doesn’t shy away from intense action, depicting a relentless battle between the two. It also features other Weapon X characters, like Sabretooth, Deadpool, and Omega Red. WhileHulk Vs. Wolverineis often overshadowed by other Marvel animated films, itremains one of the most faithful adaptations of their iconic rivalry, delivering non-stop action for admirers of both characters.
The Trial of the Incredible Hulkwas a made-for-TV movie that aired in 1989, continuing the legacy of theIncredible HulkTV series starring Bill Bixby as Dr. David Banner and Lou Ferrigno as the Hulk. The film is notable for featuring thefirst live-action appearance of Daredevil, played by Rex Smith. When Banner is falsely accused of assault, lawyer Matt Murdock takes on his case, leading to a team-up against Wilson Fisk, the Kingpin.
Though the film’s courtroom trial for the Hulk is actually a dream sequence, its title remains iconic. It also features the first Marvel movie cameo by the legendary Stan Lee, seen as a jury member when Banner transforms into Hulk in the dream. Despite mixed reviews, it remainsa nostalgic piece of Hulk history and a fascinating insight into Marvel’s early live-action adaptations.
BeforeThor: Ragnarokborrowed elements from the same storyline,Planet Hulk(2010) was adirect-to-video animated film adapting the famous comic arcby Greg Pak. The story follows Hulk’s exile from Earth by the Illuminati, landing him on the brutal gladiator planet Sakaar. Stripped of his usual allies, Hulk is forced into battle against deadly warriors, eventually rising as the planet’s ruler.
10 Most Underrated Episodes Of The Original Animated Hulk Show
Many episodes of The Incredible Hulk animated series have received critical acclaim, but some of the very best episodes are often overlooked.
ThePlanet Hulkfilm captures the raw intensity of the comics, with epic battles, deep character development, and an emotional core that shows Hulk’s evolution beyond a mindless brute. While some wished for a more expansive adaptation, the film remainsa solid interpretation of one of Hulk’s most beloved arcsand provides a greater insight into Hulk’s development than most other movies. It stands as a testament to the character’s ability to thrive outside of Earth’s traditional superhero conflicts.
This lesser-known animated film was released in 2016 as a Marvel Halloween special.Hulk: Where Monsters Dwellsees the green giant teaming up with Doctor Strange and the Howling Commandos to battle against Nightmare, a classic mystical villain. The film leans into the supernatural, featuring characters like Man-Thing, Werewolf by Night, and the vampire-like Nina Price. While marketed primarily towards younger audiences, the film still deliversa fun blend of horror and superhero action.
Though certainly boasting an ensemble line-up,Hulk: Where Monsters Dwellis firmly a Hulk adventure. The movie centers Hulk, and gives the Green Goliath the opportunity to explore working among a new team – a teamequally afflicted by their superpower personas. Though it never gained mainstream attention,Hulk: Where Monsters Dwellis a fun, spooky addition to the Marvel animated library.
Set in a dystopian future where the Avengers have fallen,Next Avengers: Heroes of Tomorrow(2008) introduces a new generation of young heroes – the children of the fallen Avengers. While Hulk is not a central figure in the animated Marvel movie, heplays a crucial role in the story. Now living in isolation, an older, grizzled Hulk is found by the young Avengers and reluctantly joins their battle against Ultron.
10 Totally Bizarre Marvel Movie Knock-Offs, Ranked By How Bizarre/Weird They Are
The Marvel Cinematic Universe has had its fair share of knock-offs and Mockbusters, but these might be the weirdest Marvel movie imitators.
His presence serves as both a mentor and a last line of defense, proving that even in a world without the original Avengers, theHulk remains an unstoppable force. His character design in this film is notably more rugged, showcasing years of battle scars. While the film primarily focuses on the younger heroes, Hulk’s appearance is a highlight that reminds viewers of his enduring strength and significance.
Phineas and Ferb: Mission Marvel
Marvel characters rarely cross into Disney’s animated series, butPhineas and Ferb: Mission Marvel(2013) wasa rare and hilarious exception. In this TV special, Hulk, along with Iron Man, Spider-Man, and Thor, loses his powers due to a mishap caused by Dr. Doofenshmirtz. As a result, the heroes must team up with Phineas, Ferb, and their friends to regain their abilities and defeat Red Skull, MODOK, and other Marvel villains.
While the crossover is played for laughs, Hulk’s interactions with thePhineas and Ferbcrew are especially entertaining. His struggle to cope with being powerlessadds a unique twist to his usual rampaging persona. The episode blends Marvel’s superhero action with the witty humor ofPhineas and Ferb, making it a fun, unexpected appearance forHulkin animated form.
