Comic master Stan Lee creates new superhero series

Stan Lee, the comic book writer who co-created characters including Spider-Man, the Fantastic Four, X-Men, the Avengers and Iron Man, has three new superhero comics series due for release, according to a July 24 announcement at San Diego Comic-Con International. Lee will appear as a character in one of the three ventures, which will also include what the press release calls "the world's first reality comic book."

The first series, Stan Lee and the Super Seven, tells the story of seven aliens who are stranded on planet Earth after their spaceship crashes. Lee, in his comic book character debut, befriends the aliens and takes them under his care, ultimately becoming their leader and enabling them to resume their lives as superheroes on earth.

Aspects of the second series, Airwalker, are being revealed through a continuing storyline on the HBO television show Entourage; the episode that aired July 25 featured a cameo by Lee. The third franchise is to be announced in October.

Stan Lee Comics will be published in both print and digital formats through a partnership between A Squared Entertainment and Archie Comics. Animated and live action entertainment, including webisodes and games, will also accompany each franchise.

"With this new line," said Lee, "I have the chance to be intimately involved with the creation of a new world of superheroes and the opportunities are limitless with the Web, TV, film and more. Although the mediums may change, this proves there will always be a place for superheroes in the world of entertainment."

Credited with creating the Marvel Comics empire, Stan Lee is now the chairman and founder of POW! Entertainment, which also revealed three new series during a Comic-Con press conference: Soldier Zero, The Traveler, and Starborn, all partnerships with BOOM! Studios, are due out beginning this fall.