No rest for Stan Lee: Icon to appear in future Marvel projects

Prior to his death in 2018, the legendary Stan Lee–co-creator of the beloved Spider-Man, Hulk, and Avengers characters–was prone to appearing in live-action and animated adaptations of Marvel’s famous comics heroes. As is his due considering his work as writer and editor-in-chief of Marvel Comics ushered in a historic period in pop culture thanks to his, Jack Kirby, and Steve Ditko’s artistry and imagination.

Lee’s passing posed the question of whether or not he would continue to be represented in the growing Marvel universe on the big screen. His cameos brought a smile to the faces of fans who anticipated seeing him in, usually comedic, scenes.

It seems fans who missed seeing Lee appear in Marvel projects won’t have to miss him for too much longer. A licensing deal has been reached that’ll bring the comics icon back into the Marvel universe despite his passing.

Here’s more on the deal!

Likeness of Stan Lee to appear in future Marvel properties

According to The Hollywood Reporter, Marvel has signed a 20 year deal with Stan Lee Universe which will allow them to use Lee’s likeness “in future feature films and television productions, as well as Disney theme parks, various “experiences” and merchandizing.”

Now this isn’t to say that Lee will once again be making cameos in Marvel projects…at least not yet. The deal gives Marvel permission to use the icon’s likeness as well as his name, voice, and signature. That means they can also insert existing images, footage, and audio recordings into their projects.

It doesn’t necesarrily mean, however, that we’ll be seeing a digitized representation of Lee. Andy Heyward, chairman and CEO of Genius Brands (POW! Entertainment’s partner in the venture that is Stan Lee Universe), had the following to say about the deal:

"It really ensures that Stan, through digital technology and archival footage and other forms, will live in the most important venue, the Marvel movies, and Disney theme parks.It’s a broad deal…The audience revered Stan and if it’s done with taste and class, and respectful of who he was, it will be welcomed. He is a beloved personality and long after you and I are gone, he will remain the essence of Marvel."

Admittedly, any use of Lee’s likeness beyond that of archival footage, recordings, and statues, used to bring to life his legacy will likely be uncannily similar to his wax sculpture or the holograms of past icons. We’re living in an age of such technological advancement that there’s so much that can be done to keep a legend alive.

For some this deal will be a step too far despite assurances that it’ll be tasteful. Time will tell if that’s true. As more Marvel projects are rolled out, Disney theme parks incorporate Lee into their offerings, and merchandise is made, we’ll see if Lee’s legacy is being celebrated or exploited.