Stan Lee, legendary writer, publisher and editor at Marvel Comics was rushed to Cedars-Sinai Medical Centre in Los Angeles in the early hours of Monday, where he sadly passed away.
Lee was known for co-creating famous comic book characters including Spider-Man, X-Men, Thor, Iron Man, Black Panther and the Fantastic Four. These iconic characters eventually left the page for the silver screen, making it possible for Stan Lee to make an impact on the general public as well.
What made Stan Lee stand out from other comic book creators was that he played an integral part in how these characters were created.
The writer pioneered a more complex approach to writing superheroes in the 60s by adding in flaws, which in turn made the characters more human and thus more accessible to readers.
Following this, the editor challenged the standards of the Comics Code Authority in the 70s, indirectly leading to it updating its policies. Lee helped push the boundaries on censorship in comics, delving into serious and topical subject matter in a medium that had become mindless, kid-friendly entertainment.
Lee himself thought that the changes he brought on used to be insignificant, but eventually changed his mind.
“I used to think what I did was not very important,” he told the Chicago Tribune in April 2014.
“People are building bridges and engaging in medical research, and here I was doing stories about fictional people who do extraordinary, crazy things and wear costumes. But I suppose I have come to realise that entertainment is not easily dismissed.”
It’s clear that the creator played a role in many lives, as many celebrities have expressed their sadness over Lee’s passing. Many shared their memories and paid tribute to the late comic book legend.
Today we lost one of the greats. @TheRealStanLee, you were a inspiration and superhero to us all. Thank you for contributing so much- and giving us all something to aspire to! 💚
#ripstanlee pic.twitter.com/GzFhwgU0WA— Zoe Saldana (@zoesaldana) November 12, 2018
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
Thank you @TheRealStanLee for the escape from this world & great joy inhabiting the ones you created!! You made so many believe in the good, the heroic, the villainous, the exciting, most of all, you were giving & gracious to us all. RIP
— Samuel L. Jackson (@SamuelLJackson) November 12, 2018
While his cause of death is still officially unknown, it was known that the writer suffered from several illnesses throughout the years.
Rest in peace Stan Lee, your presence in the world will be sorely missed.
Stay tuned for more Aussie Gossip and follow us on Facebook and Instagram!
