SDCC ’23: Jim Lee declares: “Comic Con belongs to the comics again”

By Diego Higuera

San Diego Comic Con, the annual mecca for fans of all things pop culture, kicked off with a bang this year, featuring a myriad of exciting panels catering to diverse fandoms across various media genres. Among the most anticipated events was the dedicated spotlight on none other than Jim Lee, the esteemed President, Publisher, and Chief Creative Officer of DC Comics.

Anticipation ran high as attendees gathered to witness what the comic industry icon had in store for them. And although many expected some major announcements or exclusive previews, what they got was a fun and entertaining panel that only Lee could do. Jim Lee took the stage, engaging the crowd, captivating their hearts and minds. With one sentence, “Comic Con belongs to the comics again”, Lee already had people cheering and wanting more.

Rather than unveiling new projects, Lee chose to connect with the audience on a personal level. He mesmerized fans by showcasing his artistic prowess, sketching iconic characters like Batman, Wonder Woman, and even the lesser-known Condiment King. The charismatic display of talent endeared him even more to the enraptured crowd. Cracking jokes at or with his attendees, the crowd very rarely died down; they were happy to be there whatever the circumstances may be.

In a candid moment, Jim Lee delved into his thoughts on DC’s recent evolution, emphasizing the importance of redefining long-standing characters. “We’ve had these characters for over 85 years,” he explained, “and it’s crucial that we continue to evolve them, keeping their essence intact while allowing them to grow and adapt to modern times.”

The notion of character evolution led Lee into introspection, revealing his own motivation for hosting such a distinct panel. He expressed a desire to redefine himself and embrace fresh approaches to storytelling. This quest for innovation resonated deeply with the audience, who applauded his commitment to reinvention.

Identity, according to Lee, played a crucial role not only in personal growth but also in crafting compelling narratives. He stressed that DC’s stories were not just about teaching moral lessons but also about enabling readers to connect with the characters. “It’s about asking yourself, ‘Do I see myself in this hero? Does this hero speak to me?’ That connection is what makes these stories truly impactful,” Lee passionately conveyed.

Drawing from personal experience, Lee revealed how he, as an immigrant, related to the X-Men during his early years in the United States. Having moved to the country at the tender age of four and struggling with a new language, he felt like an outsider. The X-Men’s status as mutants, different yet special, resonated deeply with his own feelings of uniqueness, forging a powerful bond between him and the characters. “At the end of the day I identified with these characters, because they were mutants. And I definitely felt that way. Because the cultures are so different. But they were also special”.

Acknowledging the current influx of successful superhero movies, Lee expressed his support for the competition between comic companies. He saw it as a win-win situation, where a thriving industry benefits all involved. “We’re on this gravy train, right? Superheroes and comics have securely established themselves in pop culture,” Lee commented. “Seeing that change is heartening, as it paves the way for even more incredible content in the future.”

In his closing remarks, Jim Lee assured fans that, in the ever-evolving world of comics, storytelling would always remain at the heart of their creations. “Good stories will always prevail,” he confidently asserted, leaving the audience with a renewed sense of excitement and hope for the future of DC Comics.

As San Diego Comic Con continues to unfold, Jim Lee’s opening panel set the bar high for the rest of the event. With a profound understanding of the industry and a genuine passion for storytelling, Lee proved once again why he remains a beloved figure in the hearts of comic enthusiasts worldwide.

Miss any of our earlier SDCC ’23 coverage? Find it all here!