The two most famous superhero comic book publishers may have their rivalry but that didn’t stop DC Comics from honoring the former face of Marvel Comics, Stan Lee.
The former comic book writer, editor, and publisher passed away November 12th, 2018. Fans, family, and other comic book writers, editors, and artists posted their reactions and heartfelt tributes to Lee after his passing. DC Comics joined in with their own way to remember the spectacular writer.
To honor the incredible Stan Lee, DC Comics posted a memorial to the publisher and cameo master in their comics released on January 2nd, 2019. It reads,
With utmost respect from the Distinguished Competition…Excelsior!”
Along with his career taking off with Marvel Comics, Stan Lee worked at DC Comics for a time. His first published work with the publisher’s of The Flash, Justice League and more was 1989’s text piece Detective Comics #600. DC Comics also created their own fictional character some consider based on Stan Lee. Created by Jack Kirby, Funky Flashman made his first appearance in Mister Miracle in the 70s.
Lee went on to publish more comics with DC which led to the creation of the Just Imagine series. In this run, published first in 2001, Lee put his unique twist on the many of the most famous DC superheroes including Batman, Superman, and Wonder Woman. He used the series to redesign the heroes and give them new backstories. His final work with DC Comics was 2004s DC Comics Presents: Superman #1.
Lee started working with Marvel in the 60s and helped usher in characters like The Fantastic Four, Iron Man, and Spider-man. He and Jack Kirby appeared in several comics as themselves over the years.
Marvel Comics also published comics the same day honoring the late writer. The comics feature a banner at the top reading “Stan Lee 1922-2018.”
