A new documentary titled Stan Lee: The Final Chapter has emerged, promising to reveal the disturbing realities of elder abuse and exploitation faced by the late comic book legend Stan Lee during his final years. This project, spearheaded by Jon Bolerjack, Lee's former assistant, is not just about the remarkable characters and the legacy left by Lee, but rather dives deep to expose the manipulation and mistreatment he allegedly suffered before his passing in 2018 at the age of 95.
Stan Lee, known for co-creating iconic superheroes such as Spider-Man, Iron Man, the Hulk, and X-Men, was instrumental in transforming Marvel Comics from a struggling publisher to one of the most successful entertainment companies globally. Despite his monumental contributions, the later years of his life raised questions about the motives of people around him as they seemingly sought to exploit his fame and creativity. The documentary sheds light on these troubling events, depicting Lee as someone who, even amid declining health, continued to be burdened with obligations related to autograph signings and convention appearances.
According to Bolerjack, who had unprecedented access to Lee's life during his final four years, this documentary is particularly personal. He stated, “Jon gained unprecedented access and filmed everything he saw. What he uncovered was about the thriving market where Stan’s signatures and memorabilia were converted to huge piles of cash and rival hucksters double-crossed each other to control Stan’s fortune.” This alarming statement summarizes the atmosphere of exploitation surrounding one of the comic book industry's most revered figures.
The trailer for Stan Lee: The Final Chapter offers glimpses of Lee appearing frail and exhausted as he was escorted to various comic book conventions. The film features interviews with notable comics industry figures, including Rob Liefeld, Mark Waid, and Roy Thomas, who reflect on Lee's immense contributions to the medium and express their shock at the reported treatment he endured.
Beyond the words of comic luminaries, Bolerjack's commitment to telling Lee’s story is evident. He expressed, “Bringing the truth to light is never without its risks. This documentary delves the real story behind Stan Lee’s final years, exposing those who wronged him. Despite challenges, I am committed to ensuring Stan’s true story is told.” Bolerjack mentioned facing potential threats to his safety, frivolous lawsuits, and other tactics aimed at silencing him. Despite such obstacles, Bolerjack remains motivated to honor Lee's legacy through this film.
Lee's condition raised alarm during his last years, with existing claims of elder abuse surfacing not long before his death. The Hollywood Reporter previously covered the troubling dynamics surrounding Lee's life, including legal declarations where he described how certain individuals had “insinuated themselves” for ulterior motives aimed at controlling his wealth. This sentiment echoes throughout the planned documentary as it aims to illuminate the darker side of fame and fortune.
Apart from threats he faced personally, Bolerjack has also chronicled the extensive battle over Lee's estate. He disclosed details about the accusations filed against Keya Morgan, Lee's business manager, who was previously the focus of elder abuse claims. Notably, Morgan faced charges for five counts of abuse stemming from abusive conduct witnessed during Lee's final years, culminating with restraining orders issued against him to protect Lee.
With every passing year, Lee’s contributions to the comic industry resonate with fans old and new. His last on-screen memoir was the cameo he made for the film Avengers: Endgame, released only months after his death. Despite many recognizing him as the symbol of comic book culture, the painful legacy of his exploitation raises important questions about how the industry treats its most cherished figures.
The documentary's Kickstarter campaign has already garnered over £26,000 out of its funding goal of £232,143 as of March 12, 2025, illustrating both interest and investment from fans eager for the truth to emerge. The campaign embodies support for the exploration of serious issues surrounding elder abuse, the intersection of creativity and exploitation, and the need to advocate for vulnerable individuals.
What remains evident is the necessity of sharing the stories behind the stories — particularly for those who gave us larger-than-life heroes. Bolerjack’s film not only promises to share Lee’s powerful legacy but strives to create dialogue surrounding accountability within the industry. By detailing the reality faced by elder figures such as Lee, the documentary aims to act as both homage and cautionary tale for future generations of creators.
It is abundantly clear: the comic book industry's history must encompass the darker episodes along with the celebratory moments, especially when it involves someone as pivotal as Stan Lee. With films like Stan Lee: The Final Chapter, there is hope for fostering transparency and justice, ensuring legends are honored not only through their work but also through the respect and dignity they deserve.