Stan Leeis well-known for hisMarvelcameos, but has also appeared in numerous animated projects, including film and television. Stan Lee, the legendary writer and co-creator of numerous Marvel superheroes, became a beloved figure in Marvel fandom, known for his iconic voice and appearance.Stan Lee has a cameo in most live-action Marvel movies, appearing in early adaptations of his characters and most movies inthe MCU timeline. Though these became his most famous, Lee appeared in a litany of animated Marvel projects, serving as narrator or playing minor characters from Marvel Comics.
Stan Lee’s first cameo was in 1989’sThe Trial of the Incredible Hulk, and quickly became a staple of Marvel movies that adapted characters Lee created. This led to a swathe of cameos in the early 2000s superhero movie boom, solidifying his status as Marvel’s premier cameo star. Maintaining this throughout the MCU catalog, Lee appeared in every movie until his death. While these may be his most famous, throughout this time Lee was also voicing characters in animated movies and television shows, solidifying him as the cameo master.
20The Incredible Hulk (1982-1983)
Narrator
InThe Incredible Hulk(1982-1983), Stan Lee served as the narrator, guiding viewers through the story of Bruce Banner and his transformation into the Hulk. His iconic voice set the tone for each episode,bringing authority and excitement to the show’s openings and cliffhangers. As the narrator, Lee made viewers feel connected to the unfolding drama of Banner’s struggles and the Hulk’s emergence. His voice-over work made him a key presence, though he was never actually seen.
19Spider-Man & His Amazing Friends (1983)
Stan Lee returned as the narrator inSpider-Man & His Amazing Friends, lending his distinct, enthusiastic voice to the series. His narration provided context and shepherded viewers through Spider-Man’s and his friends’ adventures, building excitement for the younger audience. His voice work added a layer of authenticity,grounding the show in Marvel’s origins. Lee’s narrations created a unique connection between the action on-screen and Marvel’s comic book roots, making him a crucial part of the storytelling.
18X-Men: The Animated Series (1992-1997)
Arcade Manager
InX-Men: The Animated Series, Stan Lee had a brief cameo as an arcade manager who accosts Jubilee in episode 1, “Night of the Sentinels.” This small role allowed him to interact with the X-Men character, creating a fun Easter egg for fans who recognized his voice. By placing Lee in the ordinary role of an arcade manager, the show cleverly grounded Marvel’s godfather within the mutant-filled world, giving hima much terser role than typical for the lovable icon.
17Fantastic Four: The Animated Series (1994)
Himself
Stan Lee’s role as narrator was updated forFantastic Four: The Animated Series, credited as himself and even introducing himself as Stan Lee. By featuring Lee directly, the show acknowledged his role as the creator of the Fantastic Four and celebrated his contribution to Marvel Comics. This self-referential appearance was both a tribute to his influence and began infusing his role with more personality - which wouldsubsequently become the standard.
16The Incredible Hulk: The Animated Series (1996-1998)
Cliff Walters
Stan Lee voiced Cliff Walters, She-Hulk’s father, inThe Incredible Hulk: The Animated Seriesseason 2, episode 2 “Down Memory Lane.” It was the first timeLee played a character from Marvel Comics. Though a minor part, Cliff Walters was essential in exploring Jennifer Walters accepting her powers and the impact they have on her life. Cliff Walters also helped reflect howBruce Banner is entrenched in a militaristic presence, often surrounded by the armed forces in a way that hinders his plight.
15Spider-Man: The Animated Series (1994-1998)
InSpider-Man: The Animated Series, Stan Lee appeared in the show’s finale. Spider-Man traverses the multiverse persuing Carnage for athrillingSpider-Man: TASbattle. In the “real world,” Lee appears as himself towards the end of the episode, allowing Spider-Man to meet his creator and even take him web-swinging. This cameo allowed viewers to see Lee interact with one of his most iconic creations. It was a fitting tribute thathighlighted his role as the creative mindbehind Spider-Man and Lee’s influence in Spider-Man’s world.
14Spider-Man: The New Animated Series (2003)
Frank Elson
InSpider-Man: The New Animated Seriesseason 1, episode 12 “Mind Games: Part One,” Lee voiced Frank Elson. Elson is a mysterious character who encourages Spider-Man to exact violent revenge against Kraven the Hunter for killing Mary Jane Watson. Lee’s appearance was chilling and mightbe his darkest acting performance of all time, setting Spider-Man off on an attempt for vengeance, which hangs over the remainder of the season.
13The Spectacular Spider-Man (2008-2009)
Stan
Stan Lee made another self-referential appearance inThe Spectacular Spider-Man, playing a version of himself in a humorous cameo. Though not supposed to be Spider-Man’s creator, his appearance is based on Lee and is named Stan. His presence underscored his iconic status within the Marvel universe, delighting those who recognized his voice. The show paid homage to his legacy and contributions,reinforcing the bond between the Marvel creator and his creations.
12Black Panther (2010)
General Wallace
In theBlack Pantheranimated series, Stan Lee voiced General Wallace, a government official with strong opinions on Wakanda. Wallace appears in the very first episode during the White House meeting regarding Wakanda, representing an outside and ill-informed perspective on the powerful, isolated nation. Lee’s portrayal of Wallace offered a critical, sometimes humorous view of Wakanda’s interactions with the outside world and is a rare example of Lee playing a dislikable character.
Mayor of Superhero City
InThe Super Hero Squad Show, Stan Lee voiced the Mayor of Superhero City, a comical role that suited the show’s playful tone. Though ostensibly a children’s show,The Super Hero Squad Showwas surprisingly self-aware. As such, Lee played the former superhero-turned-mayor, even elected under one of Lee’s famed catchphrases:“‘nuff said!”This lighthearted portrayalallowed Lee to show his humorous side, making him a central figure in the series and adding levity to the superhero action.
