Spider-Man Copyright Dispute is Settled

January 19, 2024

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As reported by Reuters, according to a joint filing, Marvel and the estate of the late artist and writer, Steve Ditko, have “amicably resolved” a copyright dispute relating to the superheroes, Spider-Man and Doctor Strange, in the Marvel comics that Ditko either wrote or co-wrote between 1962 and 1966.

The late Ditko was a prolific comic book artist and writer. Beyond his work on Spider-Man and Doctor Strange, Ditko was also responsible for considerable work on Iron Man, a character whose fame has only increased with the proliferation of Marvel movies in recent decades.

This reportedly marks the final case to settle in a series of copyright disputes between Marvel and artists who were among the writers and illustrators of Marvel comics in the 1950s, 60s and 70s. Marvel sued the artists after they sought to terminate and recapture their rights in several superheroes whom they claimed to have co-created. Marvel argued that the works were made for hire, resulting in the inability to recapture the copyright.

While the terms of the settlement have not been disclosed, the joint filing indicates that a dismissal with prejudice is anticipated to be filed in early 2024.

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Authors: Noor Sakran and Yaseen Manan