Ultraman is a fictional superhero who debuted in the pilot episode to his 1966 TV series of the same name, entitled "The Birth of Ultraman". He is the first tokusatsu hero launched by the Ultra Series and by extension, Tsuburaya Productions. His appearance in the entertainment world helped spawn the Kyodai Hero genre with countless shows such as Godman and Iron King.
Ultraman portrayed in his Specium Ray stance
Shin Hayata, portrayed by Susumu Kurobe circa 1966
Ultraman's suit variations in 1966: Type A (left), Type B (middle) and Type C (right)
The CGI Ultraman, as shown in the clip Ultraman_n/a
Ultraman (1966 TV series)
Ultraman is a Japanese tokusatsu science fiction television series created by Eiji Tsuburaya. Produced by Tsuburaya Productions, it is a follow-up to Ultra Q, though not technically a sequel or spin-off. Tsuburaya Productions produced 39 episodes that aired on Tokyo Broadcasting System (TBS) and its affiliate stations from July 17, 1966, to April 9, 1967. Its premiere topped the average rating set by Ultra Q and kept climbing each week, marking the show as a success. It was also the first Japanese television series to use a bidding system for commercial rights, allowing multiple third-party companies to sponsor the show. This was following TBS's merchandising troubles with its predecessor.
Title card for Ultraman English dub (1966)
Image: Ultraman gyango ruffian from outerspace 19660925