The late, great comic book creator Stan Lee will return to the Marvel Cinematic Universe as Marvel signs a new deal to use his appearance in any future productions.

As reported by THR, Marvel has inked a contract with Stan Lee Universe, a venture between Genius Brands International and POW! Entertainment, that will allow Lee's likeness to be used in any upcoming film or television projects. The contract also states that the creator's name and appearance can be utilized for "Disney theme parks, various 'experiences' and merchandizing." It's currently unknown when the deal officially starts but audiences can possibly expect more of Lee's beloved cameos throughout the ever-growing Marvel Cinematic Universe.

Related: Stan Lee’s First Theatrical Marvel Movie Cameo Was Never Released

While many fans expressed enthusiasm to see Lee return to the big screen, industry insiders reportedly said that Marvel is still considering how best to use his likeness. The contract covers the creator's name, likeness, voice and signature and also relates to all existing footage featuring Lee.

“It really ensures that Stan, through digital technology and archival footage and other forms, will live in the most important venue, the Marvel movies, and Disney theme parks,” said Andy Heyward, chairman and CEO of Genius Brands. “It’s a broad deal.”

Related: Why Captain Marvel’s Stan Lee Cameo May Be His Most Special MCU Appearance

Lee is widely regarded as one of the most important comic book creators of all time. Alongside Jack Kirby, he is credited as the co-creator of several iconic superhero characters and teams, including Iron-Man, Spider-Man, the X-Men and the Hulk. While his legacy in the realm of superheroes is undeniable, movie-goers will likely be very familiar with his cameos in nearly every major Marvel film. His onscreen credits date back to 1989 when he appeared as a jury member in the television film The Trial of the Incredible Hulk. His final onscreen MCU cameo was in 2019's Avengers: Endgame.

While many fans may be pleased to potentially see Lee return to the big screen, Marvel Studios previously stated that it would not be recreating his cameos, following his death in 2018. "That is the legend, the man, we will never try to replace him," said Marvel Studios Executive Vice President of Production, Victoria Alonso at the time. "Other people will come around, and then you have someone as phenomenally creative as [Marvel Studios President] Kevin Feige, but there’s only one Stan Lee."

Source: THR