Stephen Colbert paid tribute to Stan Lee on Monday, hours after news outlets reported the legendary 95-year-old writer, editor and publisher at Marvel Comics had died.
The prolific comics creator either created or co-created a list of legendary characters including Black Panther, Spider-Man, the X-Men, the Mighty Thor, Iron Man, the Fantastic Four, the Incredible Hulk, Daredevil and Ant-Man, among others.
“Lee had a hand in creating all your favorite comic-book characters,” Colbert, a self-proclaimed Marvel fan who has a Captain America shield on his set, said. He highlighted that, in addition to his work, Lee led a fascinating life: He was a World War II veteran and was married to wife Joan for 70 years. “After they dated for two weeks they flew to Reno so she could get a quickie divorce and marry Stan the same day. Now that’s a story,” Colbert said.
Colbert continued, “So thanks for all the stories, Stan, and I know you’re hearing this a lot today, but ‘Excelsior.'”
Colbert also welcomed Hugh Jackman, who has played Wolverine in nine films based on the Marvel character. When Colbert asked about Lee, Jackman said, “Let me say to the family and legions of fans that I remember Stan as a true gentleman who had a glint in his eye. He was a creative genius who created a whole world that changed the lives of many people, mine included.”
Jackman also remembered being on a red carpet at Comic-Con “and no one was taking my photo because at the other end was Stan Lee. Stan, god bless you, you’re one of the greats,” he said.
Other stars, including Bob Iger, Ryan Reynolds, Edgar Wright, Jamie Lee Curtis, Larry King and more, offered their memories of Lee throughout the day on Monday on social media.
(Excerpt) Read more in: The Hollywood Reporter