This month marks the 60th anniversary of The Incredible Hulk‘s smashing debut at Marvel Comics. The Incredible Hulk, created by comic book legends Stan Lee and Jack Kirby, and first published in May 1962, is the story of Robert Bruce Banner, a mild-mannered scientist cursed by his own invention, who transforms into a raging grey behemoth (later changed to green because it was easier for print).
The Incredible Hulk’s powers are pretty straightforward: the more pissed off he gets, the stronger he becomes, and the more difficult he is to control. He’s a monster just as much as he is a superhero, as the Hulk frequently battles his own rage, insecurities, and childhood trauma coming from being raised by an abusive father.
The Hulk has definitely gone through a lot of changes over the years, and has appeared in loads of comics, several movies and an iconic television show starring Bill Bixby and bodybuilder Lou Ferrigno.
In the Marvel Cinematic Universe, Hulk matures into a leader with greater control over his anger and a stronger emphasis on his intelligence. It’s a far cry from his monstrous 1962 debut, and his story doesn’t seem to be anywhere near being over yet.
The Incredible Hulk shares his 60th anniversary with Thor and Spider-Man, two other Marvel favourites and iconic characters in their own right.
