At the 2025 Los Angeles Comic Con, fans were treated to a remarkable experience as a holographic version of Marvel Comics legend Stan Lee was unveiled. This innovative project aimed to honor Lee’s enduring legacy and provide fans with a unique opportunity to interact with the creator of iconic superheroes such as Spider-Man, Hulk, Iron Man, and Thor.
The hologram was developed through a collaboration between Proto Hologram, known for its advanced holographic technology, and Hyperreal, an artificial intelligence firm specializing in creating realistic digital humans. Utilizing archived footage and appearances by Lee prior to his passing in 2018 at the age of 95, the team meticulously crafted an avatar that faithfully represents his likeness and voice. Fans could engage with the hologram in an enclosed booth at the Los Angeles Convention Center, where it interacted with attendees, sharing anecdotes and expressing appreciation for fan conventions.
Chris DeMoulin, CEO of Comikaze Entertainment, the organization behind Los Angeles Comic Con, emphasized the project’s intent to extend Lee’s influence to future generations. He stated, “We think it’s important that 20 years from now, a 10-year-old kid knows who Stan Lee was, the way they know who Walt Disney was.” To ensure authenticity, the hologram was programmed to only use words and opinions previously expressed by Lee, with advanced technical guardrails in place to prevent any deviation from his established persona.
While the initiative received acclaim from many fans, it also sparked controversy among some attendees. Critics expressed concerns about the ethical implications of using AI to recreate a deceased individual, with some labeling the presentation as “dystopian.” Despite mixed reactions, the project underscores the growing intersection of artificial intelligence, holography, and the preservation of celebrity legacies.
The debut of Stan Lee’s AI hologram at L.A. Comic Con represents a groundbreaking fusion of technology and tribute, offering fans a chance to reconnect with a beloved figure in the Marvel universe. As technology continues to evolve, such innovations may pave the way for new forms of interaction and remembrance in the entertainment industry.
