Even Legends Need Protection: The Elder Abuse of Stan Lee and What It Teaches Us

At Caring Fiduciary, we protect those who are no longer able to protect themselves—by managing assets with transparency, guarding against financial abuse, and ensuring our clients live with dignity. Sadly, one of the most public reminders of why our work matters comes from a man who gave the world superheroes: Stan Lee.

Stan Lee—the creative force behind Spider-Man, the X-Men, Black Panther, Iron Man, and countless other Marvel icons—spent a lifetime inspiring people to stand up for what’s right. But in his final years, he himself became a victim of elder abuse, suffering from exploitation, manipulation, and emotional isolation at the hands of those who were supposed to care for him.

What Really Happened to Stan Lee?

After the death of his wife, Joanie, in 2017, Stan Lee’s health and independence began to decline. He was 94 years old. With no spouse and only one adult child, Lee became increasingly dependent on those around him, especially his inner circle of caregivers, attorneys, and business associates.

Here's a closer look at what occurred:

• Financial Exploitation:
  A man named Keya Morgan, who had become Lee’s business manager and self-described caretaker, was later arrested and charged with felony elder abuse. He allegedly moved Lee out of his home, isolated him from trusted friends, took control of his finances, and misused Stan’s fame to profit from public appearances—sometimes charging $120 or more for a photo with Lee. Investigators said Morgan embezzled over $262,000 in proceeds from autograph signing events.

• Isolation and Emotional Abuse:
  Multiple reports suggested that Stan Lee was prevented from seeing friends, staff, and advisors who had looked after him for decades. In one recorded video, Lee appeared confused and coached as he spoke about his relationship with Morgan. Other close associates claimed they were locked out of Lee’s home, unable to contact or help him.

• Legal Chaos:
  In a single year, at least four different people claimed to hold power of attorney over Stan Lee. Lawsuits were filed. Restraining orders were requested. The swirl of conflicting legal documents and financial decisions reflected one thing clearly: Lee was no longer fully in control of his affairs, and no trustworthy fiduciary had been designated to act solely in his best interests.

• Family Struggles:
  Allegations of emotional abuse also extended to Lee’s daughter, J.C. Lee, with whom he had a volatile relationship. Reports indicated ongoing arguments about money, excessive spending, and physical confrontations that added to the instability around Lee in his final months.

Despite his fame and success, Stan Lee died in 2018 amid confusion, lawsuits, and heartbreak, having spent his last years surrounded by legal disputes, questionable caretakers, and diminishing autonomy.

Why This Matters to Us at Caring Fiduciary

Stan Lee’s case—high-profile though it was—mirrors what happens every day to seniors across the country. The U.S. Department of Justice estimates that at least 10% of older adults suffer some form of elder abuse, with billions of dollars lost annually to financial exploitation.

What made Stan vulnerable?

• Cognitive decline and failing health

• Loss of a spouse and emotional support

• Absence of a strong, professional fiduciary structure

• Family conflict and dependence on unvetted caregivers

These are the exact circumstances Caring Fiduciary is trained to navigate.

Our Role as a Shield

When families work with us, we step in with professionalism and compassion. We:

• Act as independent fiduciaries with legal and ethical responsibility to protect the client.

• Manage financial accounts, estates, and trusts with full transparency and compliance.

• Provide oversight and accountability, especially when multiple parties are involved.

• Ensure the client’s wishes—not others' agendas—are honored with dignity.

How You Can Help Prevent Elder Abuse

Stan Lee’s situation could have been prevented. Here’s how you can help protect your loved ones:

• Start conversations early about financial planning, durable power of attorney, and trusted fiduciaries.

• Stay involved—regular check-ins reduce the risk of isolation and manipulation.

• Hire professionals to handle complex financial or caregiving responsibilities.

• Report concerns to Adult Protective Services (APS), law enforcement, or a fiduciary advisor.

A Legacy of Protection

Stan Lee said it best: “With great power comes great responsibility.” At Caring Fiduciary, we honor that call every day. We protect those who are aging, vulnerable, or alone—because even the strongest among us eventually need someone in their corner.

If you’re concerned about a loved one’s safety or financial well-being, don’t wait. Reach out today. Because even legends like Stan Lee deserved better.