While the Hulk is often portrayed as a loner inMarvel Comicsand adaptations, the 1996TheIncredible Hulkanimated series showed that even the angriest Avenger could find some true allies in surprising places. The show was a bold, action-packed series that leaned into Hulk’s dual identity struggles and gave Bruce Banner emotional depth. What made the show memorable wasn’t just Hulk’s inner conflict – it was the team-ups. Whether clashing with or fighting alongside Marvel’s supernatural and cosmic heroes, Hulk shared the screen with major guest stars.
TheIncredible Hulkanimated series ran for two seasons from 1996 to 1997 and was part of the larger wave of Marvel cartoons in the ‘90s that includedX-Men: The Animated Series,Spider-Man: TAS, andIron Man. While not as commercially successful as some of its counterparts,Hulkgained a cult following thanks to its intense tone, serialized storytelling, and unexpected crossovers. Bruce Banner’s ongoing struggle to rid himself of the Hulk was central, but the series wasn’t afraid to bring in other Marvel heavyweights who would later become essential players inthe MCU timeline.
10Gabe Jones Is A SHIELD Representative
See The Incredible Hulk TAS Season 2, Episode 8 “Mission: Incredible”
InThe Incredible Hulk: The Animated Series, Gabe Jones serves as a steadfast representative of S.H.I.E.L.D. and plays a key role in monitoring and occasionally aiding the Hulk. While S.H.I.E.L.D. is often depicted as a threat to Hulk, Gabe stands out as one of thefew agents who shows understanding and restraint. Voiced by Thom Barry, his character walks a fine line between duty and empathy.
Gabe is often tasked with difficult decisions, balancing the agency’s directives with his personal judgment about Hulk’s humanity. Unlike General Ross, Gabe sees Bruce Banner as more than a monster, often offering alternatives to aggressive tactics. His relationship with Hulk is professional, but it grows into arespectful dynamic where trust is cautiously earned. In a show where Hulk is frequently hunted, Gabe Jones is a rare ally who works from within the system to help.
9Doctor Strange Brought A Magical Tone
See The Incredible Hulk TAS Season 2, Episode 3 “Mind Over Antimatter”
Doctor Strange’s appearance inthe Incredible Hulkadded a mystical layer to Hulk’s world. Voiced by Maurice LaMarche, Strange debuted in the first season’s “Mind Over Anti-Matter,” where he helped Banner fend off a sinister presence, a demon who sought to control the Hulk. Strange’s presence gave the seriesan instant dose of the supernaturaland expanded its tone beyond traditional sci-fi and action.
Doctor Strange’s dynamic with Hulk was based on mutual respect – Strange recognized Hulk’s raw power and Banner’s intellect, while Hulk, though initially skeptical, appreciated Strange’s guidance. The episode cleverly balanced mind-bending visualswith character growth, showing Hulk not just smashing things but making complex choices. It also allowed viewers to see how Hulk operated in a world of magical rules and abstract threats. This crossover highlighted how versatile Hulk could be when paired with characters outside his usual rogue’s gallery.
8Ghost Rider Helped Hulk Hunt A Monster
See The Incredible Hulk TAS Season 1, Episode 5 “Innocent Blood”
One of the most surprising and compelling team-ups came in the second-season episode “Innocent Blood,” when Hulk crossed paths with Johnny Blaze, a.k.a. Ghost Rider. Their alliance began in conflict – Ghost Rider judged Hulk as a threat and sought to punish him. However, after realizing that Banner’s soul was tormented but not evil, Ghost Rider changed course. Together, they tracked down a monstrous creature whose violence mirrored Hulk’s, leading toa deeper discussion about morality, rage, and redemption.
The episode stood out for its darker tone, atmospheric visuals, and heavy themes. Ghost Rider’s Spirit of Vengeance contrasted sharply with Hulk’s raw emotion, creating a bond forged through understanding rather than friendship. It was a rare moment whereHulk found an ally who didn’t want to cure or fight himbut accepted the duality within him. Their uneasy partnership left a lasting impression.
7The Thing Helped Hulk After Battling Him
See The Incredible Hulk TAS Season 1, Episode 8 “Fantastic Fortitude”
Ben Grimm, better known as The Thing of the Fantastic Four,shared a memorable episodewith Hulk in “Fantastic Fortitude.” Like many of Hulk’s encounters, their relationship began with fists. The two clashed in a classic Marvel brawl, each believing the other was a threat. However, once the dust settled, Grimm realized that Banner was in distress and offered his support.
Their dynamic worked well because both werestrongmen with tragic backstories– Grimm’s transformation into The Thing left him visibly altered, much like Banner’s struggle with Hulk. This shared burden led to a mutual understanding, and the pair worked together to overcome a greater enemy. The episode wasn’t just about action – it was about empathy between two reluctant heroes. By the end, Hulk found a friend who truly understood what it meant to live in a body shaped by science and struggle.
6Thor Teams Up With Hulk
See The Incredible Hulk TAS Season 1, Episode 9 “Mortal Bounds”
InThe Incredible Hulkepisode “Mortal Bounds,” the God of Thunder, Thor, entered Hulk’s world. Initially summoned to help contain a deadly virus outbreak, Thor became a powerful ally when the monstrous Gargoyle emerged. The pairing worked on multiple levels – Thor’s regal demeanor contrasted with Hulk’s brute strength, but bothheroes respected each other’s capabilities. Unlike many Marvel characters who viewed Hulk as a problem to fix, Thor saw him as a warrior.
Their battle against Gargoyle highlighted this respect, with Thor often defending Hulk’s actions and urging others to see the hero within the monster. Their combined strength made for some of the series’ most dynamic action sequences, but it wastheir camaraderie that stood out. Thor’s nobility and Hulk’s raw power made them an iconic duo, reminding fans that even gods can see value in misunderstood heroes.
5Iron Man Fights Hulk To Help Bruce
See The Incredible Hulk TAS Season 1, Episode 4 “Helping Hand, Iron Fist”
Tony Stark, a.k.a. Iron Man, appears inThe Incredible Hulk: The Animated Seriesnot just as a superhero peer, but as someone genuinely concerned about Bruce Banner. Voiced by Robert Hays—reprising his role fromIron Man: The Animated Series—Stark doesn’t shy away from confronting Hulk when necessary. However, his motives often stem from adesire to protect Bruce and contain the threat the Hulk poses.
While their initial interactions involve conflict, Tony ultimately wants to use his intellect and technology to find a solution for Bruce’s condition. Iron Man’s appearances in the series highlight his role as both a rival and a reluctant friend. He’s one of the few heroes who sees Hulk as a complicated figure rather than just a brute. His advanced tech and tactical mind make him a formidable opponent, but also a potential savior when Bruce needs help.
4Doc Samson Helps Hulk Navigate His Issues
See The Incredible Hulk TAS Season 1, Episodes 11-13 “Darkness And Light”
Doc Samson, a gamma-powered psychiatrist, is one of Hulk’s most unique allies inThe Incredible Hulk: The Animated Series. Introduced as Dr. Leonard Samson, his origin parallels Banner’s, resulting in green hair and enhanced strength after exposure to gamma radiation. What makes Samson stand out is his dualcommitment to science and emotional well-being. He doesn’t just punch his way through problems – he tries to help Bruce understand and gain control over the Hulk.
Samson becomes a recurring figure who acts as both a therapist and a superhero, showing that compassion and intellect can be just as valuable as brute strength. Often butting heads with General Ross and other authority figures, Samson’s loyalty lies with Bruce’s health and redemption. He’s not just another gamma mutation – he’s a stabilizing force in Hulk’s turbulent life, always aiming to heal rather than harm.
3Rick Jones Is Bruce Banner’s Best Friend
Rick Jones is arguably the heart ofThe Incredible Hulk: The Animated Series, acting as Bruce Banner’s loyal sidekick and emotional anchor. His deep bond with Bruce traces back to the accident that created Hulk – Rick was the teenager Bruce saved from the gamma bomb. This connection fuels Rick’sunwavering loyalty throughout the series. Despite the constant danger, Rick remains close, often trying to reason with Hulk and protect Bruce from external threats.
Rick is one of the few characters who sees past the rage and destruction, always holding onto the belief that Bruce can be saved. Rick provides comic relief at times but also delivers genuine emotional weight, reminding viewers that Bruce is still human. His courage, especially as someone without superpowers, makes him indispensable. Whether driving a vehicle into battle or calming Hulk with his voice, Rick’s friendship isnothing short of heroic.
2She-Hulk Became Hulk’s Permanent Partner
See The Incredible Hulk Season 2
She-Hulk, aka Jennifer Walters, joinsThe Incredible Hulk: The Animated Seriesin its second season and quickly becomes a core character. Voiced by Lisa Zane, she brings energy, humor, and strength to the team, while forming a close and lasting bond with her cousin Bruce. Unlike other characters who tiptoe around Hulk’s volatile nature, She-Hulk is fearless – charging into battle beside him and oftenlightening tense moments with sarcasm and charm.
She-Hulk’s presence marks a shift in the show’s tone, adding a dynamic that allows Hulk to interact with someone who shares his gamma heritage and understands his struggle. She becomes a true partner, both in combat and emotionally. She-Hulk’s confidence and willingness to fight for Bruce – even against S.H.I.E.L.D. or Ross – make her more than family; she’s a trusted comrade. Their dynamic becomes the backbone of the show’s latter half,offering a rare sense of balance.
1Betty Ross Is Hulk’s Closest Ally
See The Incredible Hulk Season 1 & 2
Betty Ross is Bruce Banner’s unwavering emotional support inThe Incredible Hulk: The Animated Series, despite being the daughter of his greatest enemy, General Ross. As a scientist in her own right, Betty is more than just a love interest – she’s actively involved in Bruce’s quest to cure himself. Throughout the series, sherisks her safety and reputation to help him, often standing up to her father and the military establishment.
Betty constantly advocates for Bruce, working tirelessly to separate the man from the monster. Her belief in his humanity never falters, even when others see only destruction. Unlike other allies who come and go, Betty’s presence isconsistent and emotionally grounding. She offers hope when Bruce feels lost and is one of the few people who can reach the Hulk on a personal level. Her love and faith are foundational toThe Incredible Hulkanimated series and many more.
