Predator (Character) | |
Gender: | Male |
Portrayed By: | Kevin Peter Hall Ian Whyte Brian Steele Derek Mears Carey Jones |
First Appearance: | Predator |
The Predator (or Yautja) is a fictional extraterrestrial species featured in the Predator science-fiction franchise, characterized by its trophy hunting of other dangerous species for sport. First introduced in 1987 as the main antagonist of the film Predator, the Predator creatures returned in the sequels Predator 2 (1990), and Predators (2010), as well as an appearance in the crossover series, "Aliens vs. Predator" in the films Alien vs. Predator (2004), and Aliens vs. Predator: Requiem (2007).
The Predators have also been the subject of numerous novels, video games, and comic books, both on their own and as part of the Alien vs. Predator crossover imprint. While a definitive name for the species is not given in the films, the names yautja and Hish have been alternatively used in the expanded universe. Created by brothers Jim and John Thomas, the Predators are depicted as large, sapient and sentient humanoid creatures who possess advanced technology, such as active camouflage and energy weapons, and are capable of interstellar travel.