Stan Lee to Appear as AI-Powered Hologram at L.A. Comic Con, Sparking Controversy

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For decades, Stan Lee was the undisputed king of comic conventions, delighting fans with his charisma, energy, and iconic presence. Now, nearly seven years after his death at the age of 95, Lee is set to “return” to the convention scene—this time as an AI-powered hologram at L.A. Comic Con.Credit: Marvel StudiosThe Legend RevivedFans visiting the Stan Lee Experience will be able to interact with the hologram inside a 1,500-square-foot enclosed booth. Tickets range from $15 to $20, depending on whether they are purchased in advance. Much like meeting a celebrity in person, attendees will have opportunities to pay for photos with the hologram or even engage in a three-minute, one-on-one conversation with the AI version of the comic book legend.The announcement has sparked a wave of criticism and concern from fans, many of whom view the hologram as a disturbing commercialization of Lee’s legacy. One fan shared their reaction online:I feel bad for Stan Lee. Even in death he isn’t safe from being exploited. I wish i got to meet him when he was alive, but i’ll never stoop this low to meet a fake like this.I feel bad for Stan Lee. Even in death he isn't safe from being exploited. I wish i got to meet him when he was alive, but i'll never stoop this low to meet a fake like this.— Ethereal Wind (@NSilverwind) September 20, 2025Is This Wrong?The Stan Lee Experience aims to celebrate the late creator’s contributions to pop culture and comics, but critics argue that monetizing interactions with a digital recreation of someone who has passed is insensitive. The hologram promises to use AI to simulate conversations with attendees, blurring the line between homage and exploitation.Credit: Marvel / CanvaDespite the backlash, L.A. Comic Con organizers defend the experience as a way to honor Lee’s enduring influence. However, the move raises broader questions about the ethics of posthumous AI recreations and the commercialization of deceased celebrities in fan-driven spaces.As fans debate the appropriateness of the attraction, it seems certain that Stan Lee’s hologram will provoke both excitement and controversy, much like the legendary creator himself did during his lifetime.The post Stan Lee to Appear as AI-Powered Hologram at L.A. Comic Con, Sparking Controversy appeared first on Inside the Magic.