Although Stan Lee is no longer with us, it looks like Marvel plans on using the legendary comic book creator’s likeness for many years to come. This is the result of a “unique deal” that Marvel signed with Stan Lee Universe, a venture between Genius Brands International and POW! Entertainment. This deal lasts for the next 20 years and includes the rights to use Stan Lee’s likeness and name “for use in future feature films and television productions, as well as Disney theme parks, various “experiences” and merchandising.”
This deal was revealed via THR, and it will apparently make use of “digital technology” along with “archival footage and other forms” to incorporate Stan Lee’s likeness for the future. As explained by Andy Heyward, chairman and CEO of Genius Brands:
“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,” he noted. “It’s a broad deal.”
Of course, it’s unknown if Disney really will use digital technology to recreate his style of cameos for future MCU films. After all, the technology is still in its infancy and it’s unknown if audiences are interested in such “cameos.” As explained:
“However, this new deal does not necessarily pave the way for the return of Lee cameos in movies, at least not in the way fans traditionally knew them, insiders caution. It is unclear if the public even has an appetite to see Lee digitally resurrected, as actors such as Carrie Fisher or Peter Cushing were in certain Star Wars movies.”
It seems like Stan Lee’s likeness will be used more so for future merchandise from Marvel as well as theme park events. Although the article did note VR and video games will be excluded.
“The deal does give Marvel permission to use Lee’s name, voice, likeness and signature in movies and television projects, as well as to use images, existing footage and existing audio recordings featuring him. The rights to use Lee’s name, voice, likeness and signature exclusively in theme parks, cruise lines and in-park merchandise were also included in the deal. Audiences and parkgoers could see Lee turn up as figures and toys, and on apparel and stationery.”
Andy Heyward added the following final statement regarding the importance of keeping Stan Lee’s legacy intact:
“The audience revered Stan, and if it’s done with taste and class, and respectful of who he was, [uses of his likeness] will be welcomed,” said Heyward. “He is a beloved personality, and long after you and I are gone, he will remain the essence of Marvel.”
If fans missed seeing Stan Lee, it looks like we’ll be seeing much more of the legendary comic book creator in the near future.