Saskatoon

Real life Hulk to appear at Saskatoon comic expo

The Saskatoon Comic and Entertainment Expo always features big stars, but try this one on for size: six feet five inches tall and 250 pounds of pure muscle.

Lou Ferrigno relates emotionally to much-loved comic book character

Lou Ferrigno, the original Hulk from the 1970s TV series, poses at the Montreal Comiccon 2013 special event. (Pierre Landry)

The Saskatoon Comic and Entertainment Expo always features big stars, but try this one on for size: six feet five inches tall and 250 pounds of pure muscle.

You either become victimized or you take action.- Loud Ferrigno 

Lou Ferrigno, The Incredible Hulk himself will be there.  

"I've always been a big reader of the Hulk comics," Ferrigno told CBC Radio's Saskatoon Morning.

"I had to deal with a lot of anger issues growing up and that's why I relate to the Hulk emotionally, because when I was young, people treated me like a freak."

Lou Ferrigno was the only actor to ever play the Hulk. But the fascination with the character, which is now in its 40th year, continues with computer generated imagery like the one shown here. (Universal Studios, Rhythm & Hues/The Associated Press)

Bullying fuelled Ferrigno's drive to succeed 

Ferrigno lost most of his hearing as a child, and he said that led others to bully him growing up. But he learned to focus that anger, and use it to fuel his work in the gym. As a teenager, Ferrigno became as he said "obsessed" with body building.  

"Being bullied you either become victimized or you take action. So, I decided to take action"

Ferrigno went on to win the Mr. Universe title, and in the 1970s, his size helped him win the part of The Incredible Hulk, a much loved television show. He also played the Hulk in three movies.

Comic book and science fiction fans above, flocked to the expo last year. Ferrigno says appearing at these shows lets him revisit his childhood. As a boy, Ferrigno collected Hulk comic books. (Albert Couillard/CBC)

The Hulk's softer side 

Today, Ferrigno is well-known for his work as a motivational speaker helping others to be their best and overcome their fears.  

"I make them feel powerful, giving them hope, making them feel like they have a chance in life, and not listen to the naysayers."

But though his resume is packed full of hyper masculine highlights, it appears Ferrigno has a softer side. When asked on Saskatoon Morning what people might not know about him, the former Mr. Universe and Hulk answered "[I have] no ego and I love all people."

That said, Ferrigno could not promise that the Hulk will not show up in Saskatoon.  

"I think when people lie to me, when people make up stories, it makes me want to turn into the Hulk."  

with files from Saskatoon Morning