The Marvel/Northrop Grumman Partnership Controversy erupted in October 2017 during New York Comic Con when Marvel Entertainment announced a collaboration with the major defense contractor. The announcement, which included a promotional comic featuring the Avengers alongside Northrop Grumman employees, was immediately met with intense backlash from fans who pointed out the glaring irony: Marvel’s flagship character, Tony Stark, is defined by his decision to stop selling weapons. Critics viewed the partnership as a tone-deaf betrayal of the brand's heroic values. Under the weight of the massive social media firestorm, Marvel canceled the partnership and all associated events within 24 hours. Today, it serves as a legendary example of a corporate PR 'fail' and is frequently referenced when brands make contradictory ethical moves.