Len Wein, the influential comics writer who co-created characters including Wolverine and Swamp Thing, has died. He was 69.
DC Comics confirmed the news following an outpouring of tributes from the comics community overflowed online.
“Len Wein was one of the most welcoming people and legends in comics from the moment I joined DC eight years ago,” said Diane Nelson, president of DC Entertainment. “He wrote or edited almost every major DC character — there’s hardly a facet of DC’s world that Len didn’t touch. I, DC, and the industry will miss him and his talent very much. Our love and prayers go out to Christine, his family, and his fans.”
Wein was born in New York City and began freelancing with DC Comics around age 20. His career brought him to Marvel Comics, before returning to DC again. He is credited with reviving the X-Men with artist Dave Cockrum.
In 2008 he was inducted into the Will Eisner comic book hall of fame.
News of Wein’s death prompted many tributes among prominent members of the comics community.
“Not every writer can be a good editor,” said Geoff Johns, president and CCO of DC Entertainment. “But Len deserves equal credit for both talents. He helped to revitalize the entire DC Universe.”
Brian Michael Bendis wrote, “Len Wein, co-creator of WOLVERINE and SWAMP THING & more responsible for the x-men you love than he gets credit for. Thank you. #RIP.”
Len Wein, co-creator of WOLVERINE and SWAMP THING & more responsible for the x-men you love than he gets credit for. Thank you. #RIP
— BRIAN MICHAEL BENDIS (@BRIANMBENDIS) September 10, 2017
“RIP the great #LenWein. He co-created Wolverine & Swamp Thing, both of which gave me a living as a writer & endless pleasure as a reader,” Mark Millar tweeted.
RIP the great #LenWein. He co-created Wolverine & Swamp Thing, both of which gave me a living as a writer & endless pleasure as a reader.
— Mark Millar (@mrmarkmillar) September 10, 2017
“I just learned that my friend and writing inspiration @LenWein passed away this morning. My love and condolences to his wife, @mcvalada,” Neil Gaiman wrote.
I just learned that my friend and writing inspiration @LenWein passed away this morning. My love and condolences to his wife, @mcvalada.
— Neil Gaiman (@neilhimself) September 10, 2017
Joss Whedon tweeted, “Co-created Wolverine & the new X-men. Co-kickstarted the modern comic book era with its most powerful metaphor. And more. RIP Len Wein.”
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
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
Watch an interview with Wein below:
