When we think of Marvel, we think of the movies, comics, superheroes, and merch. Ever wondered who actually owns them all?
Well, you're in luck - we've gone the extra mile to uncover this fascinating tidbit straight from the heart of the Marvel Universe.
Understanding who's at the helm of the comic book gives you a glimpse into who's shaping the stories that have touched our hearts for decades.
We won't keep you waiting any longer - here's the full scoop on who owns Marvel Comics.
Who Is The Real Owner Of Marvel Comics?
Marvel Comics belongs to the Walt Disney Company.
This might sound surprising, considering Disney is known for fairytale stories and bright characters like Mickey Mouse, Cinderella, and Rapunzel (instead of science fiction-comic book characters).
However, this partnership has proven to be a superhero-level success.
In 2009, Disney made a big move by shelling out $4 billion to acquire Marvel. Since then, they've been dishing out not only comic books but also Marvel toys, films, and TV series featuring our beloved Marvel heroes. [1]
Does It Own All Of Marvel Comics?
Yes, Disney owns all of the Marvel Comics you see at comic book stores.
When they made the deal to buy Marvel for $4 billion in 2009, they acquired famous Marvel characters like Spider-Man and the X-Men and gained full control over the entire Marvel universe, including every comic book.
So, when you watch a Marvel movie, pick up their superhero comics, or even visit a Disneyland or California Adventure amusement park, you're stepping into Disney territory.
Who Sold Marvel Entertainment To Disney?
The Marvel brand belonged to Marvel Entertainment Group before being sold to Disney. This company is located in New York.
This sale was mainly because the New York City-based company faced some financial challenges, especially when financing its blockbuster movies and meeting certain budget requirements. Marvel solved these problems by becoming a part of the Disney family.
On Disney's side of the story, they were all about growth and seizing new opportunities. Former Disney CEO Bob Iger saw enormous potential in Marvel's extensive roster of characters, but there were concerns among the higher-ups about Marvel's characters not aligning with Disney's family-friendly image.
However, under Iger's leadership, those concerns were put to rest, and the growth of Marvel Studios, as they say, is history.
Does Disney Own 100% Of The Comics?
Yes, Disney owns 100 percent of the Marvel comic books.
When Disney bought Marvel in 2009, they didn't just get a piece of the pie; they got the whole bakery.
Every comic book about web-slingers, mutants, and heroes in spandex now belongs to Disney.
What Marvel Is Not Owned By Disney?
One of the biggest Marvel names not owned by Disney is Spider-Man.
When Disney first acquired Marvel in 2009, Spider-Man wasn't part of the package deal. Sony Pictures had already snagged the film rights to the web-slinger back in 1999, which meant they had full creative control.
Disney managed to secure the merchandising rights for the web-slinger in 2012. In 2019, Sony and Disney agreed to share custody of the character, which meant that Tom Holland could appear alongside the Avengers in the MCU.
X-Men and the Fantastic Four are a few other characters whose history of ownership is confusing, but ultimately, they belong to Disney now.
During the 90s, Marvel Entertainment sold the rights to these characters to 20th Century Fox.
However, in 2019, Disney made a massive move by purchasing 21st Century Fox for $71.3 billion, ultimately bringing the characters home. [2]
How Long Does Disney Have Rights To It?
Disney has perpetual rights to the Marvel Cinematic Universe, including every comic book, with no expiration date in sight.
When the company acquired Marvel in 2009, they secured a lasting hold on the Marvel universe.
Does Stan Lee Own Marvel Comics?
No, Stan Lee does not own Marvel Comics (known as Timely Comics during his time).
While Stan Lee was undoubtedly one of the comic books' visionaries and gave life to iconic characters like Spider-Man, the X-Men, and the Fantastic Four, he didn't own the graphic novels.
Marvel was a company; like all companies, it had various shareholders and owners over the years. For example, DC Comics is owned by Warner Brothers.
Stan Lee's legacy lives on through the Marvel characters he co-created, but ownership lies elsewhere.
FAQs
Who created Marvel comics?
Marvel Comics was created by a team of talented individuals, including Stan Lee, Jack Kirby, and Steve Ditko.
Who owned Marvel before Disney?
Marvel Enterprises owned Marvel before Disney's acquisition in 2009. Find out more about when Disney bought Marvel here.
In Summary
To summarize, The Walt Disney Company owns Marvel Comics. Their acquisition in 2009 marked the beginning of an epic journey through the Marvel Universe, where they've brought heroes like Captain America and Iron Man to life, expanded their roster, and secured a lasting grip on our favorite characters.
So, whether you're reading a Marvel comic, enjoying a superhero movie, or having a blast at Disney parks with Marvel attractions, remember that it's all thanks to Disney's magical touch.
If you're interested in Marvel merch, check out our collection!
References:
- https://www.investopedia.com/articles/markets/102915/top-5-companies-owned-disney.asp
- https://www.bbc.com/news/business-53747270
