Ben 10 Season 1 Episode 1 — "And Then There Were 10"

The original Ben 10 animated series launched an iconic franchise that would span multiple shows, movies, and generations. The journey begins with Episode 1, "And Then There Were 10," where a young boy named Ben Tennyson stumbles upon a mysterious alien device that forever changes his destiny.

As Ben sets off on a cross-country summer vacation with his cousin Gwen and Grandpa Max, he comes across a falling pod in the woods. Inside is the Omnitrix — a powerful alien wristwatch that allows him to transform into ten different alien species. But the device attaches itself permanently to Ben’s arm, binding him to an incredible — and dangerous — fate.

“One summer. One watch. Ten aliens. A lifetime of adventure begins with a single transformation.”

Episode Summary

Ben's summer vacation starts like any other — annoying Gwen, roasting marshmallows, and dodging Grandpa Max's gross food. But things take a dramatic turn when a mysterious meteor crashes nearby. Ben investigates, finds the Omnitrix, and activates it, becoming his first alien: Heatblast.

His excitement quickly turns to panic when he realizes he can’t take it off and doesn’t know how to control the alien powers. Meanwhile, an alien warlord named Vilgax learns the Omnitrix has landed on Earth. He sends a robotic drone to retrieve it, leading to Ben’s first major alien battle.

With Gwen’s sass and Grandpa Max’s experience guiding him, Ben begins to understand the responsibility that comes with power. Though he’s still immature and impulsive, his heart is in the right place. By the end of the episode, Ben decides to use the Omnitrix to become a hero — in his own chaotic way.

Themes & Character Development

Transformation & Growth: The Omnitrix is a metaphor for puberty, change, and personal growth. Ben’s journey reflects how kids adapt to unfamiliar responsibilities.
Family Bonds: Ben and Gwen’s bickering masks a growing trust. Grandpa Max provides emotional stability, wisdom, and subtle mystery.
Being a Hero: Ben’s first instinct is to have fun, but he quickly learns the consequences of his powers, setting the tone for his future development as a reluctant hero.

Production Details

First Aired: December 27, 2005 (pilot preview), officially January 13, 2006
Created By: Man of Action (Duncan Rouleau, Joe Casey, Joe Kelly, and Steven T. Seagle)
Written By: Greg Klein and Thomas Pugsley
Directed By: Scooter Tidwell
Produced By: Cartoon Network Studios
Art Style: Bright, comic-inspired visuals with bold outlines and energetic animation — a hallmark of mid-2000s CN aesthetics
Voice Cast:
- Tara Strong as Ben Tennyson
- Meagan Smith as Gwen Tennyson
- Paul Eiding as Grandpa Max
- Dee Bradley Baker as various aliens and the drone

Fun Facts & Trivia

Did You Know?

The Omnitrix was originally intended to feature 100+ aliens, but the creators limited it to 10 for the first season to simplify storytelling.
Ben’s first alien form, Heatblast, became one of the most beloved characters and remains a franchise mascot.
The episode’s title, “And Then There Were 10,” is a pun on Agatha Christie’s famous novel “And Then There Were None.”
Originally, the creators planned for Ben to transform into monsters instead of aliens, but switched directions after Cartoon Network’s input.
Vilgax was inspired by a mix of sci-fi villains, particularly Star Wars’ Darth Vader and Lovecraftian alien mythology.

Legacy & Impact

This episode kicked off a billion-dollar franchise and a generation's love for alien transformation. Its simple premise — a kid with a watch that turns him into 10 aliens — opened the door to complex lore, cross-dimensional threats, and character-driven drama. Even 20 years later, "And Then There Were 10" stands as a perfect pilot: fun, fast-paced, and packed with potential.

The charm of Ben 10 lies not only in its action but in its heart. Episode 1 makes it clear — this show is about growing up, even when growing up means turning into a 10-foot-tall fire monster.

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