What a marvel

Stan Lee, the colourful Marvel Comics’’ patriarch, who helped usher in a new era of superhero storytelling, died at the age of 95. Hollywood personalities, including Chris Hemsworth, Ryan Reynolds and Robert Downey Jr, have paid emotional tributes to the comic visionary.

Thor actor Chris Hemsworth shared an image of Lee in Thor’s traditional helmet while holding the hammer, Mjolnir. “RIP my friend. Thank you for the incredible adventures your stories took all of us on. My love and support goes out to all your friends and family,” he wrote. 

Ryan Reynolds, who plays Deadpool in the X-Men franchise, shared a photograph of Lee’s cameo in the latest Deadpool movie and wrote: “Damn... RIP Stan. Thanks for everything.” Chris Evans, who plays Captain America, wrote: “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 many lives.”  Robert Downey Jr., who first began portraying Iron Man in 2008 and launched the first film in the Marvel Cinematic Universe, posted an image on Instagram with Lee. “Owe it all to you. Rest in peace Stan,” he captioned the image.

Creative genius

Benedict Cumberbatch, who joined the Marvel Cinematic Universe as the titular Doctor Strange, shared: “Stan Lee’s imagination has held generations in its thrall. My love and thoughts to his family.” 

Wolverine star Hugh Jackman wrote: “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.” 

Guardians of the Galaxy star Chris Pratt thanked him for the world he created: “Thanks for everything Stan Lee! What a life, so well lived. I consider myself extraordinarily lucky to have gotten to meet you and to have played in the world you created.” 

Tom Holland, who plays Marvel’s latest iteration of Spiderman wrote: “How many millions of us are indebted to this guy, none more so than me. The father of Marvel has made so many people so incredibly happy. What a life and what a thing to have achieved. Rest in peace Stan.” Actor Jeremy Renner who plays Hawkeye in the Avengers franchise honoured him with a photograph. 

On the Hollywood Walk of Fame, fans also took time to honour Lee by laying flowers alongside his star. A floral wreath also appeared, complete with a black sash and the comic book writer’s name written in gold. — IANS