Lou Ferrigno is not easy seeing green in brother's business

LOS ANGELES -- You wouldn't like Lou Ferrigno when he's angry.

The former "Incredible Hulk" star has sued his own brother over the use of the family's name, claiming trademark infringement, report news sources.

The suit, filed Jan. 6 in New Jersey, alleges that Andy Ferrigno's Ferrigno Fitness trades on the "Hulk"-ster's fame by using their name for the gym equipment store and on the website FerrignoFitness.com and even the color of the store's awning, which the fashionistas refer to as "Hulk" green. Lou Ferrigno is not affiliated with the business.

"On numerous occasions, Lou Ferrigno and members of his family have been contacted or approached by strangers or acquaintances who believe that Ferrigno Fitness is 'Lou's store,'" the lawsuit says.

In response to the allegations, Andy Ferrigno posted a disclaimer and an open letter on his business' website stating, "This website is not in any manner/form affiliated w/ Lou Ferrigno or Lou Ferrigno Enterprises. This website is proudly owned by Andrew Ferrigno."

Brother Andy goes on to detail how he actually owned two Ferrigno Fitness stores since 1980, but only the New Jersey business remains. Following his father's death, Andy claims that his "estranged" relationship with Lou was rekindled, only to have Lou file the lawsuit over the rights of the Ferrigno name.

Lou Ferrigno first rose to fame with the 1973 Mr. Universe bodybuilding title. Five years later, he donned green makeup and ragged pants to play the ticked off alter ego of mild-mannered Dr. David Bruce Banner (Bill Bixby) on "The Incredible Hulk" series.

He reprised the role for a few TV movies and a cartoon. In 2003, he made a cameo as a security guard in Oscar-winning director Ang Lee's big-screen adaptation of "Hulk." Recently, he was sworn in as a Los Angeles County reserve sheriff deputy.