The animated show embraced the characters mythology, showcasing more of Hulks world than the MCU ever has.

The MCU introduced the Hulk inThe Incredible Hulk(2008).

Since then, Hulk has been part of major crossover events rather than receiving his own dedicated films.

The Incredible Hulk (1996)

His storyline has often been sidelined, with elements essential to his character receiving little exploration.

It provided a more fleshed-out version of the Hulk mythos than the MCU has managed to this day.

The MCU often pushes Hulk into the background, using him as a supporting character for other heroes.

Hulk from the MCU and The Incredible Hulk animated series

Custom image by Milica Djordjevic

Even characters like Grey Hulk played a role in the animated show.

The MCU has largely sidelined these figures,reducing Hulks world to a fraction of what it should be.

These appearanceshelped expand Hulks world beyond just gamma-powered conflicts, showing his interactions with the broader Marvel Universe.

Hulk from TAS and Hulk from the MCU

The inclusion of Ghost Rider, for example, added a supernatural element that the MCU has barely touched.

It featured both the classic Green Hulk and the fan-favorite Grey Hulk, each with distinct personalities.

Hulk is rarely able to battle one of his own numerous iconic villains.

Samuel Sterns in Brave New World and in The Incredible Hulk

The animated series, on the other hand, fully embraced Hulks rogues' gallery.

The show delved into Banners trauma, guilt, and suppressed emotions, even showcasing his Grey Hulk persona.

However, after that film, the MCU quickly abandoned this idea.

Lou Ferringo and Mark Ruffalo as the Hulk with animated Hulk

ByThe Avengers(2012), Bruce was no longer being pursued, andhis fugitive status was barely referencedagain.

In contrast, the animated series depicted his transformations asdeeply tied to his emotions.

The series also explored the toll these transformations took on him, something the MCU has mostly downplayed.

Sam Wilson and Thaddeus ross in Captain America Brave New World

He employed advanced military strategies, weapons, and alliances with other villains to try and take Hulk down.

Meanwhile, the MCU reduced Ross to a supporting character whose presence never significantly impacts Hulks story.

In contrast,The Incredible Hulkanimated seriesdedicated significant time to developing their bond.

Headshot Of Neal McDonough In The Los Angeles premiere of ‘The Shift’

She-Hulk was a major character throughout the second season, allowing her relationship with Bruce to grow organically.

The show depicted theirmutual understanding of their unique struggles, highlighting their shared burden and emotional connection.

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