Most Talked-About Controversies Linked to Stan Lee

By Popular Timelines Editorial Team · Updated: May 28, 2026

A closer look at the most debated and controversial moments involving Stan Lee.

Stan Lee (1922-2018) was a pivotal figure in the comic book industry, renowned as a writer, editor, publisher, and producer. He spearheaded Marvel Comics' transformation from a modest publishing division into a global multimedia powerhouse. As Marvel's primary creative force for two decades, he co-created iconic characters like Spider-Man, the X-Men, Iron Man, and the Hulk, revolutionizing the superhero genre. Lee's imaginative storytelling and vibrant characters captivated audiences worldwide, leaving an indelible mark on popular culture and entertainment.

Sections (6)

Full Timeline Early Life & Education Career & Achievements Challenges & Struggles Controversies & Scandals Legacy & Impact

2001: Start of period of alleged mismanagement of intellectual property.

In 2001 began a period where Gill Champion and Arthur Lieberman allegedly misled Lee about intellectual property rights deals.

2017: End of period of alleged mismanagement of intellectual property.

2017 was the final year in a period where Gill Champion and Arthur Lieberman allegedly misled Lee about intellectual property rights deals.

2017: Alleged Sexual Harassment by Stan Lee

In early 2017, Stan Lee was accused by a small number of nurses of sexually harassing them at his home. Lee denied the allegations.

January 10, 2018: Mail Online alleges sexual harassment accusations against Lee

On January 10, 2018, the Mail Online reported accusations from nurses alleging that Lee had sexually harassed them in early 2017. Lee denied the allegations, claiming extortion attempts.

April 2018: Lee sues Jerardo Olivarez

In April 2018, Stan Lee filed a lawsuit against his former business manager, Jerardo Olivarez, accusing him of being an "unscrupulous businessman" who exploited Lee after gaining power of attorney. Olivarez allegedly fired Lee's banker, changed his will, and transferred millions of dollars from his accounts, using some of the funds to purchase a condominium.

April 2018: Report of elder abuse against Lee

In April 2018, The Hollywood Reporter published a report alleging that Lee was a victim of elder abuse. Keya Morgan, Lee's business manager, was accused of isolating Lee to gain access to his wealth.

August 2018: Restraining order issued against Keya Morgan

In August 2018, a restraining order was issued against Keya Morgan, requiring him to stay away from Lee, his daughter, and his associates for three years, due to elder abuse allegations.

May 2019: Keya Morgan charged with abuse

In May 2019, the Los Angeles Superior Court charged Keya Morgan with five counts of abuse for events that occurred in mid-2018. The charges included false imprisonment, grand theft, fraud, forgery, and elder abuse.

September 2019: J.C. Lee files lawsuit against POW!

In September 2019, J.C. Lee filed a lawsuit against POW! Entertainment in the United States District Court for the Central District of California. The lawsuit was related to recent events and aimed to regain intellectual property rights that Stan Lee had established when founding Stan Lee Entertainment in 1998.

June 2020: J.C. Lee's lawsuit against POW! Entertainment dismissed

In June 2020, Judge Otis D. Wright II dismissed J.C. Lee's lawsuit against POW! Entertainment, deeming it "frivolous" and "improper". J.C. Lee was sanctioned for $1,000,000, and her lawyers were sanctioned for $250,000. POW! was also given the right to seek legal fees.