R.I.P Stan Lee
November 12, 2018
Earlier today, comic book writer and legend, Stan Lee died at the age of 95. If it weren’t for Lee, many of the books and films we are used to now wouldn’t exist.
Many take comic book movies for granted. However, before Marvel started their three-phase plan in 2008 the only Superhero movies were that of Sam Rami’s “Spider-Man” trilogy, a couple of X-Men films, and an overall large amount of gritty, un-family friendly films that took a new cynical spin on superheroes.
Before Marvel became Marvel, the comic company was previously called both “Timely Publications” and “Atlas Comics.” Stan Lee — aka Stanley Leiber — was first introduced to the project in 1939 and soon became Interim Editor in 1941.
The official Marvel branding began in 1961, the year that the company launched “The Fantastic Four” — courtesy of Stan Lee. After that, Lee focused on trying to create characters that were relatable to normal, everyday people of all ages.
By the late ’60s, Marvel was selling 50 million comic books a year. In 1972, Lee became the company’s president and publisher. Lee would soon perfect an assembly line-like way of making comic books with Jack Kirby and Steve Ditko.
Lee is also responsible for creating characters such as Peter Parker/Spider-Man, Nick Fury, Black Panther, and Iron Man. And of course the famous Avengers team.
While Lee’s passing will be felt around the world, it’s important to remember that the legacy he left behind will be one recognized and praised for decades to come.
And let’s hope that “Avengers: Infinity War II” was able to get that cameo before he passed.
