DC Comics Reacts To Len Wein’s Passing

Last night, just hours after the death of veteran comics writer/artist Len Wein, one of his most frequent (and recent) employers issued statements mourning his loss.

DC had an official statement on Wein’s death, with co-publishers Dan DiDio and Jim Lee each issuing separate statements on Facebook. Each of them were adapted into part of DC’s official statement, with additional comments by company brass.

“Terribly saddened by the news of the passing of comic book legend and gentleman–Len Wein,” Lee wrote. “Long time creator, writer, editor and friend of both DC and Marvel, he created or edited so many of the greats which really defined my peak fandom years. Wolverine! Storm! Colossus!–just to name a few of the juggernauts he brought to life at Marvel. At DC, he co-created Swamp Thing, Amanda Waller and served as the editor on the very best works here–books like Watchmen and New Teen Titans. His impact and influence are beyond measure, and we will miss him dearly.”

“Saddened to hear of the passing of my long time friend and colleague Len Wein,” DiDio said. “Len was the first comic professional I ever spoke to (in a call arranged by my sister and his aunt Gloria) and he taught me the inner workings of comics while we worked on Reboot and War Planets. He was a constant source of inspiration and his spirit and creativity was something every professional should aspire to. One of the true greats, whose love of comics was on every page he wrote. There isn’t a single day that I am not inspired by something he created or wrote. He will be missed by many but his work will continue to entertain for generations. My condolences to his wife Christine Valada, and his family.”

“Len Wein was one of the most welcoming people and legends in comics from the moment I joined DC eight years ago,” said Diane Nelson, President of DC Entertainment, in the company’s official statement. “He wrote or edited almost every major DC character – there’s hardly a facet of DC’s world that Len didn’t touch. I, DC and the industry will miss him and his talent very much. Our love and prayers go out to Christine, his family and his fans.”

“Not every writer can be a good editor,” said Geoff Johns, President & Chief Creative Officer of DC Entertainment. “But Len deserves equal credit for both talents. He helped to revitalize the entire DC Universe.”