Len Wein, famed comic book writer and editor, has passed away today at the age of 69.
Mr. Wein contributed quite a bit to the superhero worlds that we know today, with his first Marvel story appearing in Daredevil #71 in December 1970. He continued to work with both Marvel and DC Comics and created some of our most iconic and beloved characters. One of those characters was Swamp Thing, who first appeared in The House of Secrets #92 in July 1971, co-created by artist Bernie Wrightson.
Along with Roy Thomas, Herb Trimpe and John Romita Sr., Len Wein co-created Wolverine just three years later. Wolverine appeared at the end of The Incredible Hulk #180 and again appeared in #181. In 1975, he teamed up with artist Dave Cockrum to revive the the X-Men, created by Stan Lee and Jack Kirby. Together they kicked off Uncanny X-Men #94 and 95 and created the characters Storm, Thunderbird, Nightcrawler, and Colossus.
In addition to being a writer, Mr. Wein was also a successful editor, having worked on the critically acclaimed Watchmen. For all of his amazing work, he was inducted into the Will Eisner Comic Book Hall of Fame in 2008.
Many have taken to social media to pay tribute and talk about Mr. Wein’s influence on their lives:
Blessed to have known Len Wein. I first met him in 2008. I told him – from his heart, mind & hands came the greatest character in comics. pic.twitter.com/cFqL1uy0JV
— Hugh Jackman (@RealHughJackman) September 11, 2017
Co-created Wolverine & the new X-men. Co-kickstarted the modern comic book era with its most powerful metaphor. And more. RIP Len Wein. pic.twitter.com/TSiWChvfdI
— Joss Whedon (@joss) September 10, 2017
We are deeply saddened to hear of Len Wein's passing, and send our deepest condolences to his friends and family: https://t.co/9qLllJAScE pic.twitter.com/0VAtTPPxd6
— Marvel Entertainment (@Marvel) September 11, 2017
Extremely saddened to hear of Len Wein's passing. Incredible writer, incredible person. Thank you Len for all you gave to us. RIP
— Scott Snyder (@Ssnyder1835) September 10, 2017
DC mourns the passing of @LenWein, dear friend & longtime contributor. Our condolences to his family & friends. https://t.co/hUZeRuK1AJ pic.twitter.com/tbXr7YYKhQ
— DC (@DCComics) September 10, 2017
There is no doubt about the huge impact Mr. Wein made on the comic universes we know and love today. Our thoughts are with his family, friends and fellow fans.
