DC Comics confirmed that Len Wein, co-creator of Swamp Thing and Wolverine, has died at age 69. Wein was a master of the comics universe, having traveled from an early start at DC Comics to Marvel Comics and back again. With Dave Cockrum, Wein brought the X-Men back to life. Long before that, Wein created Swamp Thing with Bernie Wrightson. Wrightson sadly also passed away this year in March at 68. He and Wein were almost exactly the same age. Swamp Thing first appeared in 1971.
The comics legend Neil Gamain said of Wein that he was “one of the nicest people” he’d met in 30 years in comics. Director Joss Whedon attested that Wein “kickstarted the modern comic book era with its most powerful metaphor.” In addition to his writer credits, Wein is also credited with being an excellent editor.
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
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
In mourning Wein many sought to go beyond the headlines — predictably about Swamp Thing and Wolverine — and mention Wein’s less well-known but also enjoyable and influential work:
His 70’s work on Phantom Stranger with Jim Aparo is phenomenal. This I believe is pre-Swamp Thing. Worth finding and reading.
— Pocket Universe (@P_Universe_Prod) September 11, 2017
And of course Hugh Jackman who personified Wolverine on film, mourned the loss:
Blessed to have known Len Wein. I first met him in 2008. I told him – from his heart, mind & hands came the greatest character in comics. pic.twitter.com/cFqL1uy0JV
— Hugh Jackman (@RealHughJackman) September 11, 2017
