Artist Rob Liefeld, known for creating characters like Deadpool and Cable in comic books, has ended his long-standing relationship with Marvel Entertainment. In a passionate podcast episode on Robservations and an interview with The Hollywood Reporter, Liefeld expressed frustration towards Marvel Studios president Kevin Feige, accusing the company of mistreating comic book creators. He specifically mentioned feeling disrespected at the premiere of Deadpool & Wolverine.
Marvel’s Cold Shoulder at the Premiere
At the July premiere of Deadpool & Wolverine, Liefeld discovered that he and his family were not invited to the post-event gathering – a significant contrast from his previous interactions with the franchise. To make matters worse, he claims that Marvel executives, including Kevin Feige, chose to overlook him completely, even though they were close by on the red carpet.
Not so much as a single handshake. Classless.
— robliefeld (@robertliefeld) February 6, 2025
“It was meant to embarrass, diminish, defeat me,” Liefeld fumed on his podcast.
As his annoyance escalated, he discovered that the professional shots depicting him alongside members of the Deadpool & Wolverine squad had been erased later on. Although snaps featuring Liefeld and his kin popped up in Disney’s Getty press hub, he suspects those group photos were merely courtesy gestures and not intended for actual use.
It became apparent to him that his tenure with Marvel was concluding, as the rejections made it crystal clear. In simple terms, he acknowledged, “Eventually, I understood the hint, and the hint was unmistakable.
Liefeld’s Frustration with Marvel Runs Deep
The issues between the Deadpool creator and Marvel didn’t first arise at the premiere. In fact, Liefeld had been feeling aggravated even before then, particularly over Marvel’s decision in 2023 to credit editor Roy Thomas as a co-creator of Wolverine. This move upset Christine Valada, the widow of original Wolverine co-creator Len Wein.
In June 2024, Liefeld opted to express his interest, sending an email to Marvel requesting a unique acknowledgment within Deadpool & Wolverine, and inquiring about access to events and promotions. However, he claimed that instead of discussion, he encountered hostility.
In an email, I expressed that Marvel’s ability to handle creators has never been their forte. It’s crucial to acknowledge that without the realms, figures, and ideas we craft – in this instance, Deadpool’s universe – there wouldn’t be any films to produce or blockbusters to release. I am not a quick-fix option at Staples; instead, I represent the human ingenuity that fuels it all.
He went so far as to ask that his issues be escalated to either Kevin Feige or the CEO of Disney, Bob Iger, emphasizing that those working in comic book creation should not be overlooked or considered secondary.
According to Liefeld, there was no reply from Marvel, yet his agents reported that the email did not sit well within the company. Subsequently, he posted on Twitter the following day:
“My reps were screamed at today, ‘We are NOT Fox!’ Tell me about it. Also hung up on.”
Liefeld contends that the underlying strain was the true cause for his exclusion from the Deadpool & Wolverine afterparty, according to him.
Did Marvel Really Disrespect Liefeld?
In the movie “Deadpool & Wolverine,” Marvel Studios paid tribute to artist Liefeld by incorporating a store named “Liefeld’s Just Feet” into a pivotal fight sequence – this was a playful wink to Liefeld’s famous difficulties in drawing feet. Moreover, he was extended an invitation to visit the film’s set in London.
However, Liefeld suggests that even during that visit, he felt unwelcome.
He shared with THR that he was merely an observer in the journey, yet there was no turmoil involved. He felt content being present, and his feelings towards Marvel were less favorable compared to his experiences at 20th Century Fox, where they produced Deadpool (2016) and Deadpool 2 (2018).
Liefeld, known for his bold expressions, has been subject to critique due to his perceived underappreciation of the creative efforts of other Deadpool originators, like Fabian Nicieza, who penned Deadpool’s initial appearance. A source within the industry observed:
“Liefeld, who is well-known for his outspoken nature, has faced criticism due to his seeming undervaluation of the creative work done by other Deadpool pioneers, such as Fabian Nicieza, who scripted Deadpool’s debut.
“While we respect what he’s contributed, he does not respect what others have contributed.”
In spite of the negative feedback, Liefeld maintains that he personally advocated for Nicieza to be recognized as a co-creator in the first two “Deadpool” films. He has also commended both Ryan Reynolds and Joe Kelly for their significant roles in shaping the character’s development.
Liefeld Blasts Feige for Ignoring Comic Creators
It’s worth noting that one of the standout comments made by the Deadpool Creator was his strong criticism towards Kevin Feige’s approach towards comic book creators.
On his podcast, Liefeld stated that, based on his own experiences, Kevin Feige doesn’t seem to handle comic book creators with great kindness.
He subsequently compared Feige with James Gunn from DC Studios, who often lauds comic book authors and even extends invitations for them to visit movie sets.
As a passionate movie enthusiast, I’ve noticed that Feige occasionally pays homage to creators during events like San Diego Comic-Con. However, I feel it’s not quite enough. I yearned for him to personally acknowledge me at the premiere of Deadpool & Wolverine. In my opinion, Marvel should take greater strides in recognizing and honoring its creative pioneers.
Liefeld is wrapping up his time at Marvel with the upcoming Deadpool Team-Up Issue No. 5, which hits shelves next week.
Liefeld acknowledged that not every success can be shared, sometimes it’s necessary to reveal the failures too. In this case, he admitted it was a failure.”
Or simply:
“Liefeld confessed that while sharing triumphs is common, it’s also important to share the occasional setbacks. He admitted this instance was one of them.
Apart from expressing the practical aspect, he also admitted the personal impact of the circumstances, stating, “I felt compelled to participate in the podcast, allowing my words to reach people. There was no hint of anger. Occasionally, it was challenging to conceal my feelings of sadness.
Regardless of the turmoil, Liefeld continues to be one of the most impactful creators in contemporary comics. However, based on his statements, it appears that Marvel Studios has let go of one of its most outspoken and frankly opinionated founding pioneers.
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2025-02-07 14:55