OK, it wasn't the Hulk -- just bodybuilder/actor Lou Ferrigno. OK, just is a little unfair. In the early 1970s Ferrigno became the youngest and only consecutive two-time winner of the Mr. Universe title. The dual feat remains unequaled.

Ferrigno's appearance in the 1977 bodybuilding documentary "Pumping Iron" opened the door to screen roles, most famously from 1978 to 1982 as the misunderstood green goliath in "The Incredible Hulk" TV series. He also did five made-for-TV "Hulk" movies, including the 1990 finale, "The Death of the Incredible Hulk." That and a host of other vintage "Hulk" TV programming are now available on DVD.

Yes, the Hulk has been very, very good to the 51-year-old Ferrigno, whose history with the character attracts attention at the various pop-culture expos he attends.

And the history continues: Ferrigno has a cameo as the "head of security" in the new big-budget "Hulk" movie directed by Ang Lee.

Taking a break from hobnobbing with his fans at Planet Comicon -- although he's hard of hearing, Ferrigno is an excellent lip-reader -- the still-imposing big guy spoke about his Hulk-happy career.

Who wants your autograph?

Fans from 6 to 90.

How does that feel?

It feels great, because I'm always recognized. I can't hide my personality. If I go to the airport, I get mobbed.

Does that kind of fame change you?

Basically I'm the same person -- I'm myself. I don't have to put on a show and be phony to people. And that's why I enjoy it. Other actors put on a show. And when they run out of gas, then the fans usually get upset.

Your opinion of the new Hulk being computer-generated?

Well, he can't sign autographs.

Did you feel stepped over for the role?

I think they could have used me. But they wanted to go on the big screen, and they wanted to develop a whole new technology because of the changes in special effects.

What's it like not being the Hulk in a Hulk movie?

It's great, because I'm very happy to be part of the movie. I lobbied for 12 years, and they promised me I'd be in the film.

How were you treated on the set? After all, you were the Hulk.

Eric Bana (who plays the Hulk's human alter ego, Bruce Banner) was very excited I was in the film. When I finished my scene, I got a standing ovation. They were very happy to have me.

Does Ang Lee understand the Hulk?

Yes. He's a huge fan of the Hulk. I think he's very much into the life story of the Hulk.

Have a good feeling about the movie?

It's going to create Incredible Hulk-mania. The kids are going to learn about the Hulk as a great hero. It's something we need now. Especially with the (terrorist) situation. We need entertainment. We need a futuristic King Kong. That's what it's going to be.

Which is more difficult -- acting or bodybuilding?

They're different. One is physical, the other is emotional. Bodybuilding is more on the outside. Acting is more on the inside.

I've got to ask: How big are your biceps?

Right now, 21 inches.

How big were they at your physical peak?

23.

How many other 51-year-old men have 21-inch biceps?

Nobody. Nobody in the galaxy.

Is there a question that you're surprised you've never been asked?

Maybe some deep sexual question.

Like what?

I'm not going to say it.

Oh, go on.

How big I really am. That's the question I've never been asked. But I don't think I want to be asked that question.

Do you still feel the Hulk's rage?

At times, yes. I've learned to control it.

That's good. Anything else?

My fans are No. 1. They don't forget. They're the ones that buy the tickets and go to the movie theater and watch on television. I'm here for the fans.