Jim Lee Vows DC Comics Will Always Use Human Creators, No AI Allowed

During the recent Retailer Day at New York Comic Con, Jim Lee, a co-publisher and artist at DC Comics, announced that the company will not be using art or writing created by artificial intelligence. He made this clear while speaking to both retailers and fans.

Lee stated that DC Comics will never allow stories or artwork created by artificial intelligence, as long as he is leading the company. He believes that genuine comics rely on the creativity of human artists and writers.

The power of media comes from the delicate, beautiful link between what we imagine and how we feel – it’s what brings stories to life. It’s about the uniquely human elements – the flaws, the willingness to experiment, and the personal touch – things that computers can’t copy. When I create art, I embrace imperfections. Those smudges, shaky lines, and moments of hesitation aren’t mistakes; they’re a part of me, my process, and what ultimately makes the work feel real and vibrant.

Lee emphasized that readers connect with the genuine quality of comics created by humans. He explained that people naturally respond to authenticity and are turned off by anything that feels artificial. This is why human creativity is so important – AI can collect and combine existing material, but it can’t truly dream, feel, or create original art. As creators and publishers, our role is to evoke real emotions in people, and that’s what drives us to continue creating.

Lee had previously explored using AI to recreate his artistic style after his passing, but that plan is now paused. DC Comics has dealt with some artists using AI in their published work, and the company’s biggest worry is figuring out who owns the copyright when AI is involved.

If AI creates content, DC Comics wouldn’t have complete ownership rights, potentially making it freely available for anyone to use. This is a key concern because popular characters like Batman, Superman, and Wonder Woman are becoming available for public use in the future.

Lee highlighted that what truly sets DC characters apart isn’t just how well they’re drawn or written, but the compelling stories and rich worlds they inhabit. He explained, “Lots of people can draw a superhero or write a heroic tale – that’s been true since the beginning of comics. But Superman only *feels* like Superman when he’s part of the unique DC universe, with its history and mythology. That’s what will last, and that’s what will keep DC relevant for years to come.”

He also commended comic book store owners, recognizing them as essential to the industry. “While digital platforms help people find new comics, your stores create a community. You transform occasional readers into dedicated fans. When people visit a comic shop, they’re experiencing more than just a purchase—they’re connecting with a cultural hub, a welcoming space that feels like home. That personal connection is something no online tool can ever replace,” Lee explained.

Lee’s speech offered a hopeful vision for DC, highlighting the power of human ingenuity and dedication to overcome obstacles like artificial intelligence and evolving market trends.

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2025-10-09 13:44