Disney’s Marvel unit sues heirs of superhero comic creators

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Marvel is also facing other termination notices.  Larry Lieber (who was also a writer for Marvel) filed termination notices over his creations in May.

The heirs of the comic book creators (including Don Rico who inked Black Widow) are represented by Marc Toberoff. Toberoff at one time represented Superman creators Joe Schuster and Jerry Siegel. But he was unsuccessful in attempting to gain termination against DC comics.

DC’s attorney was able to counterclaim Toberoff was attempting tortious interference of its rights. And the same attorney is representing Disney now.

Petrocelli is filing several lawsuits in both New York and California against the heirs, Lieber, Don Heck, Patrick Ditko, Don Rico, and Keith Dettwiler. The cases will focus on determining who the statutory author is of famous comic book characters.

The Marvel Method

The litigation will determine if the “Marvel Method” was the creative tool used in character development. This method involves a  collaborative working atmosphere. And initial ideas are given to the artists who must detail out the storyline.