The "Deadpool" feature film is due for release soon and, in a situation befitting his funny and raunchy, nature has created a ruckus online. Comments by creator Rob Liefeld on comic book writer Fabian Niceiza's contributions has stirred up a storm on the internet.
In an interview with the NYT, he is prickly about sharing creator credit with Nicieza, who wrote the script for the character's first appearance, albeit based on Mr. Liefeld's story.
The Merc with a Mouth started out small, as a supporting character in one of the many X-Men comic books. Deadpool, made his debut in 1991's New Mutants #98 and is due for his first solo outing later this week.
"If a janitor scripted New Mutants #98, he'd be the co-creator - that's how it works, buddy," NYT quotes Liefeld, referring to Deadpool's first appearance. "Deadpool does not exist in any way, shape or form without me."
#98 lists Liefeld as plotter, penciller and inker, with Nicieza as scripter. Scripters used to break down plots made up by writers into panel descriptions and add dialogue before the issue was illustrated.
The closing credits of Fox's Deadpool also acknowledges both creators together. Both also receive Easter egg mentions in the film.
Have talked to @robertliefeld and a LOT was taken out of context by a NYTimes writer with an agenda. A writer who DID NOT make real (more)
— Fabian Nicieza (@FabianNicieza) February 8, 2016
Newsarama has reported that both Liefeld and "Deadpool" co-creator Fabian Nicieza have denied any issue between the two of them. Mr. Liefeld is at present working on the graphic novel "Deadpool: Bad Blood," set for release this summer.
"Deadpool" opened in UK cinemas earlier this week and critics have hailed it as a raunchy, clever, superhero spoof. A brand new trailer for the film starring Ryan Reynolds as the title character debuted in the Super Bowl.
