Comic book legend Stan Lee has died, aged 95

“I used to be embarrassed because I was just a comic book writer while other people were building bridges or going on to medical careers. And then I began to realize: entertainment is one of the most important things in people’s lives. Without it, they might go off the deep end. I feel that if you’re able to entertain, you’re doing a good thing” – Stan Lee.

Marvel comics legend Stan Lee has passed away at the age of 95.

The iconic writer and publisher is understood to have died at Cedars-Sinai Medical Centre in Los Angeles early Monday morning.

ARTICLE CONTINUES AFTER THIS ADVERTISEMENT

Lee was the main man behind some of the world’s best known comic book characters, having co-created Spider-Man, X-Men, The Hulk, Fantastic Four, Doctor Strange, Iron Man, Ant-Man, Thor, Captain America, among many others.

He is also known for his much-loved cameo appearances, having starred in all of the Marvel Cinematic Universe’s films from 2008 to present.

Lee has also made an appearance in all of the Spider-Man and Amazing Spider-Man films, X-Men movie universe, Fantastic Four films, and Deadpool films.

In 2017, he became a “Disney Legend” alongside his co-creator Jack Kirby.

WATCH:

Hundreds of Hollywood stars and fellow colleagues have since taken to social media to mourn the loss of the “pioneering force in the superhero universe.”

“Stan Lee was as extraordinary as the characters he created,” Bob Iger, Chairman and CEO of The Walt Disney Company said.

“A super hero in his own right to Marvel fans around the world, Stan had the power to inspire, to entertain, and to connect. The scale of his imagination was only exceeded by the size of his heart.

“Marvel and the entire The Walt Disney Company salute the life and career of Stan Lee and offer their undying gratitude for his unmatchable accomplishments within their halls. Every time you open a Marvel comic, Stan will be there.”

Stan Lee is survived by his daughter, Joan Celia Lee.

Today, we pause and reflect with great sadness on the passing of Stan Lee: https://t.co/J0cwgdn677 pic.twitter.com/eOBdZAqdZ0

— Marvel Entertainment (@Marvel) November 12, 2018

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

We’ve lost a creative genius. Stan Lee was a pioneering force in the superhero universe. I’m proud to have been a small part of his legacy and …. to have helped bring one of his characters to life. #StanLee #Wolverine pic.twitter.com/iOdefi7iYz

— Hugh Jackman (@RealHughJackman) November 12, 2018

Thank you Stan Lee for making people who feel different realize they are special.

— Seth Rogen (@Sethrogen) 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

Rest in peace, Stan Lee. The many worlds of imagination & delight you created for humanity will last forever.

— Elon Musk (@elonmusk) November 12, 2018