Creator of Wolverine, Dies at 69

Variety.com: Len Wein, the influential comics writer who co-created characters including Wolverine and Swamp Thing, has died. He was 69. DC Comics confirmed the news following an outpouring of tributes from the comics community overflowed online.

“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. “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.”

Wein was born in New York City and began freelancing with DC Comics around age 20. His career brought him to Marvel Comics, before returning to DC again. He is credited with reviving the X-Men with artist Dave Cockrum.

In 2008 he was inducted into the Will Eisner comic book hall of fame.

News of Wein’s death prompted many tributes among prominent members of the comics community.

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

Brian Michael Bendis wrote, “Len Wein, co-creator of WOLVERINE and SWAMP THING & more responsible for the x-men you love than he gets credit for. Thank you. #RIP.”