The Incredible Hulk: Season 1 (1978)
TV SeriesOptional
Dr. David Banner searches for a cure while the Hulk emerges in this classic TV series. Released in 1978, it’s a Marvel season that isn’t part of the MCU timeline, so it’s optional and stands on its own. At 10h, it is free to watch with ads on Tubi in the US.
| Release date | March 10, 1978 |
|---|
Why it’s worth knowing about
The Bill Bixby and Lou Ferrigno series that put 'Don't make me angry' into the culture, along with its famous lonely-piano theme.
About The Incredible Hulk: Season 1
After two pilot movies aired in November 1977, the weekly run of CBS's The Incredible Hulk started on March 10, 1978. This first season is a short one, just 10 episodes through late May. The formula is set from the start: David Banner drifts into a new town under a fake name, takes a menial job and gets caught up in someone else's trouble until his anger lets the Hulk out. Stories include a boxer unknowingly mixed up in heroin trafficking, a diamond-smuggling ring at a zoo, a Las Vegas mob story and a nuclear plant damaged by an earthquake.
Kenneth Johnson developed the show and wrote two first-season episodes, including the premiere, "Final Round." Bill Bixby stars as Banner, bodybuilder Lou Ferrigno plays the Hulk, and Jack Colvin returns from the pilots as tabloid reporter Jack McGee. Ted Cassidy voices the Hulk's growls and narrates the opening. Joe Harnell's music, built around the theme "The Lonely Man," gives the show its lonely, wandering tone.
Good to know
- "Never Give a Trucker an Even Break," written by Kenneth Johnson, reuses chase footage from Steven Spielberg's TV movie Duel.
- "747" reuses scenes from Airport 1975 and ends with Banner having to land a Boeing 747 in Denver mid-transformation.
- "Earthquakes Happen" borrows footage from the 1974 disaster film Earthquake.
- At only 10 episodes, this is the second-shortest season of the show, after season 5.
How to watch it
Start with the two 1977 pilot movies, which set up Banner's accident, his supposed death and McGee's pursuit, then move on to this season. "Final Round" and "Never Give a Trucker an Even Break" show the formula at its best, and "747" is fun for its sheer absurdity. Fans of the MCU's The Incredible Hulk (2008) will catch the echoes, since that film's opening credits recreated this show's transformation sequence.
Where to watch The Incredible Hulk: Season 1 in the US
| Streaming (subscription) | Not currently on a US subscription service |
|---|---|
| Free with ads | Tubi (more free Marvel) |
| Rent or buy | Apple TV, Amazon, Fandango at Home |
Where to watch The Incredible Hulk: Season 1 outside the US
| Country | Stream | Other options |
|---|---|---|
| United Kingdom | Prime Video | None needed |
| Canada | Not included | Not available |
| Australia | Not included | Not available |
| India | Not included | Not available |
Streaming availability last verified: October 16, 2026
All streaming options for Marvel movies and shows, by service and country.
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The Incredible Hulk: Season 1 FAQ
Why is the Hulk's alter ego called David instead of Bruce?
Kenneth Johnson wanted to avoid the comic-book habit of alliterative names, and he said the change also honored his son David. Lou Ferrigno and Stan Lee later said CBS thought "Bruce" sounded wrong for the lead, which Ferrigno called absurd.
Who voiced the Hulk in season 1?
Ted Cassidy provided the Hulk's roars and the opening narration. Lou Ferrigno played the Hulk on screen.
Should I watch the pilot movies before season 1?
Yes. The two 1977 TV movies explain how Banner became the Hulk and why McGee is chasing him. Season 1 picks up right after them.
Can you skip The Incredible Hulk: Season 1?
Yes. It’s not on the MCU timeline, so you won’t miss any MCU story by skipping it.
How many episodes does The Incredible Hulk: Season 1 have?
The Incredible Hulk: Season 1 is a one-part special.
Is The Incredible Hulk: Season 1 part of the MCU?
No. It was made outside the Marvel Cinematic Universe and isn’t on its timeline.