In Steven Spielberg’s 1982 film “E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial,” the central character is E.T., an extraterrestrial being portrayed through a combination of animatronics and special effects. E.T., whose full name is Extraterrestrial, is an iconic figure in cinema, known for his distinctive appearance and the profound emotional impact he has on audiences. As the protagonist of the film, E.T. serves as a symbol of empathy, friendship, and the innocence of childhood, making him a memorable and enduring character in the realm of science fiction and family films.

E.T. is introduced when he accidentally becomes stranded on Earth after a failed attempt to return to his spaceship. The film begins with a scene of E.T. and his fellow extraterrestrials exploring the suburban landscape, only to be separated from his group when they are forced to flee from human authorities. The sense of vulnerability and isolation E.T. experiences upon being left behind immediately establishes him as a sympathetic and relatable character.