The first live-action portrayal of Thor did not debut in a Marvel Cinematic Universe film. Actor Eric Allan Kramer played the God of Thunder in the 1988 television movie, “The Incredible Hulk Returns.”
This project served as a backdoor pilot for a potential Thor series. The film featured Lou Ferrigno as the Hulk and Bill Bixby as Dr. David Banner.
Years later, Kramer gained wider recognition for his role on the popular sitcom “The Hughleys.” He played the character Dave Rogers for four seasons.
The role marks an early chapter in bringing the Marvel character to screen, predating Chris Hemsworth’s iconic cinematic portrayal by more than two decades.