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The upcoming documentary Stan Lee: The Final Chapter by Jon Bolerjack sheds light on the alleged mistreatment of comic book legend Stan Lee.

The film aims to expose the abuse, manipulation, and exploitation Lee endured in his final years.

The Tragic Final Years of Stan Lee

Stan Lee, the visionary behind Marvel Comics, passed away on November 12, 2018, at the age of 95 in Los Angeles. However, even before his passing, concerns had emerged about his well-being. Reports surfaced claiming that Lee was being overworked and exploited, with criminals conspiring to drain his wealth.

Jon Bolerjack’s Secret Documentary

Jon Bolerjack, who was Lee’s assistant, confidant, and friend, has been working on Stan Lee: The Final Chapter in secret. In a Kickstarter campaign video, Bolerjack revealed that Lee was subjected to "mistreatment, manipulation, and betrayal at the hands of a few very bad actors."

According to the documentary, Lee was frequently forced to work beyond his physical capacity. One disturbing event captured in the film shows Lee being made to sign entire rooms full of memorabilia, despite his advanced age and declining health.

Disturbing Footage and Testimonies

"At the time, I didn't have the power to stop it," Bolerjack says in the documentary’s trailer. "But I did have a camera, and I filmed everything."

The footage includes Lee being pressured to attend events against his wishes and engaging in heated arguments with members of his entourage.

In one instance, a person is seen colliding into the frail comic book creator at full speed.

The documentary also features interviews with comic book creators Rob Liefeld and Roy Thomas, who provide further insights into Lee’s final years and the exploitation he faced.

Stan Lee’s Legacy 

Stan Lee’s influence on the comic book industry is immeasurable. Rising through the ranks at Timely Comics—later known as Marvel Comics—Lee co-created some of the most iconic superheroes alongside Jack Kirby and Steve Ditko. His contributions include Spider-Man, the Fantastic Four, the Incredible Hulk, Black Panther, Doctor Strange, and many others.

Lee Approved “Stan Lee: The Final Chapter” 

Bolerjack initially became part of Lee’s entourage after pitching him a reality show idea. Over time, he developed a deep friendship with Lee, stating, "I grew to look at him as a friend, as family, and I really wanted to be there to advocate for him."

While the documentary was a secret project, Bolerjack confirmed that it was not a secret to Lee himself. He told The Hollywood Reporter (THR) that Lee gave his blessing for the project.

"I spoke to him about this at length, even toward the very end of his life. A lot of things have happened to him, but I didn't get the real sense that he felt shame about it," Bolerjack said. "I think he wanted it out there to be that sort of warning."