A Net Gain for Superhero Fans

The creator of Spider-Man, the Incredible Hulk and the Fantastic Four is bringing a new cast of superheroes to the Internet.

Marvel Comics legend Stan Lee today will launch Stan Lee Media in Encino to create an online community for comic book enthusiasts. The site, at https://www.stanlee.net, will feature at least six new characters, a superhero game, and a place to buy, sell and trade comics.

“I have the opportunity to create characters and stories and situations and put together a body of fans--though I prefer to think of them as friends--that would be worldwide,” said Lee, who has conducted online chats with his fans for almost two years. “It’s the kind of people who like adventure, excitement, fantasy, science fiction, action and a lot of surprise, all overlaid with good-natured humor.”

The site, which will cost at least $2 million to launch, will attempt to make money through electronic commerce, co-branding and sponsorship agreements, product placements and advertising, said Peter Paul, co-founder of Stan Lee Media. Lee is also developing a Stan Lee Superhero University to teach online courses in writing and drawing superheroes, Paul said.

About 15 Stan Lee Media employees are working on the site, which is scheduled for a full-fledged launch this summer. Paul said the company could go public “within a short period.”