stock sequences when Banner transformed into the Hulk. Characters Bruce Banner: As in the original comic book, Dr Bruce Banner is an extremely intelligent physicist working in Gamma Base; during periods of stress or anger he transforms into the Hulk, a large, green-skinned, and muscular humanoid possessing a vast degree of physical strength but limited intelligence. Banner incurred this condition after being caught in the test explosion of a gamma bomb. Banner is depicted as seeking a cure for his condition. Rick Jones: Here, Rick is blond, wears a cowboy hat, and has a girlfriend named Rita. As in the early years of the comic books, Rick is the sole confidant of Banner's secret that he is actually the Hulk. The series retains from the comic book the plot-point that Rick feels partially responsible for Bruce Banner's condition, as Bruce was caught in an explosion whilst saving Rick, who was trespassing on the gamma bomb test site. Betty Ross: In this incarnation, Betty is a research scientist working alongside Bruce Banner at Gamma Base. Like the 1966 series, Betty is unaware that Banner transforms into the Hulk. As a brunette scientist, this version of Betty Ross anticipates the portrayal of the character in the 2003 and 2008 live-action Hulk films. General Ross: This incarnation of General Ross is broadly similar to the character from the comic book, although his antagonism towards the Hulk is less virulent than that of his comic book counterpart. In fact, Ross concedes grudging admiration for his foe at the end of the episode "The Incredible Shrinking Hulk," when he admits the Hulk saved Gamma Base from destruction. Major Ned Talbot: In this version, Major Talbot's first name was changed from Glenn to Ned. He is nicknamed by the troops secretly as "Noodle-head Ned" because he is very clumsy, somewhat cowardly, sucks up to General Ross, and is often deceived by the enemy. This incarnation of Talbot acts as comic relief for the series; in this respect he is quite different from the Talbot of the comic book, who was portrayed as a dedicated and competent officer (albeit bearing a hatred of the Hulk and serving as Bruce Banner's rival for Betty Ross' affections). Rio: Rita's father, a character exclusive to this series; he owns and operates the diner "Rio's Ranchero," situated close to Gamma Base. Although not officially confirmed, in the second episode, it is