Known for co-creating treasured comic book superheroes such as Spider-Man, the X Men and The Incredible Hulk, Stan Lee has died at the age of 95.
Stan Lee and Jack Kirby founded Marvel in 1961, beginning with the creation of The Fantastic Four.
The characters he created used to mirror real-life events and issues. For example, the plot to The Fantastic Four was inspired by the space race between the USA and Russia. Similarly, The X Men were created to mirror those who are different in society.
Lee once said: “The X Men are very relevant because above and beyond everything else, its a story of bigotry, of these people who are hated because they’re different, even though they’re good.”
As well as creating all these household name characters, Lee went on to produce all the Marvel Studio movies before and after its purchase by Disney in 2009. He’s also had a small cameo in every one of them.
A number of celebrities have paid their tributes on Twitter, including President of Marvel Studios, Kevin Feige.
No one has had more of an impact on my career and everything we do at Marvel Studios than Stan Lee. Stan leaves an extraordinary legacy that will outlive us all. Our thoughts are with his daughter, his family, and his millions of fans. #ThankYouStan #Excelsior!
— Kevin Feige (@Kevfeige) November 12, 2018
Chris Evans, who plays Captain America shared some kind words about his characters creator.
There will never be another Stan Lee. For decades he provided both young and old with adventure, escape, comfort, confidence, inspiration, strength, friendship and joy. He exuded love and kindness and will leave an indelible mark on so, so, so many lives. Excelsior!!
— Chris Evans (@ChrisEvans) November 12, 2018
Comedy actor Seth Rogen spoke of Lee making those who are different feel special.
Thank you Stan Lee for making people who feel different realize they are special.
— Seth Rogen (@Sethrogen) November 12, 2018
And Tesla CEO Elon Musk thanked Lee for his worlds of imagination and delight.
Rest in peace, Stan Lee. The many worlds of imagination & delight you created for humanity will last forever.
— Elon Musk (@elonmusk) November 12, 2018
He will be missed and treasured by many.
Excelsior.
Words: Jake Woods | Subbing: Adam Kaczyński