Last week, reports emerged that LA Comic Con would feature an innovative yet controversial exhibit: an AI-powered hologram of the legendary Marvel Comics creator Stan Lee. Nearly seven years after Lee’s passing at age 95, fans could pay between $15 and $20 to interact with a life-sized digital avatar of the iconic comic book pioneer within a dedicated booth at the event.

The announcement quickly ignited a wave of strong reactions from fans, media critics, and industry observers. Many expressed discomfort or outrage, viewing the hologram as a questionable tribute. A writer from TheGamer dubbed the concept “demonic,” emphasizing the need to “kill it with fire before it’s too late.” Meanwhile, The AV Club warned audiences to avoid paying for what they called “the anguished digital ghost of a beloved comic book creator, repurposed as a trap for chumps.”

On Reddit, discussions ranged from calling the hologram “incredibly disrespectful” and “in bad taste” to more visceral reactions labeling it “ghoulish” and “so fucked up.” These responses reflect a broader concern about the ethics of digital resurrection and AI use in memorializing deceased figures.

Despite the backlash, Chris DeMoulin, CEO of the company behind LA Comic Con, encouraged skepticism to be replaced with firsthand experience. He stated, “We’re not afraid of people seeing it and we’re not afraid of criticism. I’m just a fan of informed criticism, and I think most of what’s been out there so far has not really been informed.”

The debate over utilizing AI technology to recreate legendary personalities continues to grow, raising important questions about respect, innovation, and the future of digital memorials in fan culture.

Ethan Cole

I'm Ethan Cole, a tech journalist with a passion for uncovering the stories behind innovation. I write about emerging technologies, startups, and the digital trends shaping our future. Read me on x.com