Regal Publishers

In the early 1990’s, in New York City, I was invited to have lunch with Lee, by the owner and editor of the Australian Frew Phantom Comic, Jim Sheperd. Jim selected one of Lee’s favourite restaurant in Manhattan called Sardi’s, located in the theatre district. Good friend and long time Phantom historian, Bob Griffin was invited first, and suggested that I, and writer Ed Rhoades be extended a dinner invite to meet the Phantom’s creator. We all found Mr. Falk to be engaging, smart and very well read. After introducing ourselves briefly, Lee told the group many stories about his experiences while writing his countless adventures of the Phantom. Lee cherished the opportunity to answer any questions concerning his creation of both the Phantom and Mandrake the Magician. We sat and enjoyed the conversation for three hours, which seem to make the time just slip away so quickly. We loved hearing Lee’s stories, and new ideas about his iconic figure. It was this initial get together that led to an annual Lee Falk Dinner at Sardi’s hosted by our group, “Friends Of The Phantom.” Lee attended about eight such luncheon events until his untimely death in 1999.

Pete Klaus

(Pete Klaus (USA) is one of the three founding members of the club, Friends Of The Phantom (along with Bob Griffin and the late, Ed Rhoades) and he became friends with the Phantom’s creator, after being invited to a dinner in New York City, by then Australian comic editor Jim Shepherd)