Sometimes it is, like anyone else. In the cases of Stan Lee and Jack Kirby, it was genuine. Stan Lee was creative passionate, and sometimes unfortunately, a ruthless businessman. Jack Kirby was talented, but working class. His parents encouraged his art to help keep him away from gangs. His trauma from WWII fueled much his output, like a form of therapy. Nowadays, he has been getting recognized as a legit great 20th century illustrator, with the art world's bias against comic artists going away.

Rick Rubin is a creative and weird mofo. I've seen my share of documentaries on albums he has worked on, and I'd say he's legit.

Likewise, Clive Davis pretty much stumble into being a record exec.

Most of the music guys, and all of the Hollywood guys (yes, even Spielberg), though, went in just for money, power, etc..

Sometimes it is, like anyone else. In the cases of Stan Lee and Jack Kirby, it was genuine. Stan Lee was creative passionate, and sometimes unfortunately, a ruthless businessman. Jack Kirby was talented, but working class. His parents encouraged his art to help keep him away from gangs. His trauma from WWII fueled much his output, like a form of therapy. Nowadays, he has been getting recognized as a legit great 20th century illustrator, with the art world's bias against comic artists going away.

Rick Rubin is a creative and weird mofo. I've seen my share of documentaries on albums he has worked on, and I'd say he's legit.

Likewise, Clive Davis pretty much stumble into being a record exec.

Most of the music guys, and all of the Hollywood guys, though, went in just for money, power, etc..