Marvel Comics legend Stan Lee, a visionary in the world of superheroes, spent his last years facing profound challenges—an aspect that will be explored in the upcoming documentary Stan Lee: The Final Chapter by director Jon Bolerjack. Despite his iconic status, Lee endured exploitation, mistreatment, and manipulation at the hands of former business associates in his later years.
The Legacy of a Comic Book Pioneer
Lee, renowned for his groundbreaking work at Marvel Comics, played a key role in creating beloved characters and teams such as Spider-Man, the Avengers, the Fantastic Four, and the X-Men. While fans cherish his contributions to the comic book industry, few are aware of his service as a military veteran.
Stan Lee’s Military Service
During World War II (1942–1945), Lee enlisted in the U.S. Army following the attack on Pearl Harbor. Initially assigned to the Signal Corps, he was responsible for repairing telegraph wires and communications. However, upon recognizing his exceptional writing skills, the Army transferred him to the Training Film Division, where he was given the rare military classification of ‘Playwright’—a title granted to only nine individuals.
Following the war, Lee returned to Timely Comics, the company that would later evolve into Marvel Comics, setting the stage for his legendary career in storytelling.
Honoring His Service
In 2017, service members from Joint Base Lewis-McChord honored Lee by inducting him into the Signal Corps Regimental Association. He also received honorary membership in the 2nd Battalion 3rd Infantry Regiment in recognition of his contributions.
A Final Wish for the Truth to Be Told
Stan Lee passed away in 2018 at the age of 95. Director Jon Bolerjack, who worked closely with Lee as an assistant, revealed that the comic book icon wanted his struggles to be acknowledged. “We spoke about this at length, even in the final stages of his life. He experienced many hardships, but I never sensed that he felt ashamed of them,” Bolerjack shared. “I believe he wanted his story to be told as a warning for others.”
With Stan Lee: The Final Chapter, the world will gain deeper insight into the lesser-known struggles of a man who shaped the Marvel universe.