Summary
- X-Men '97 is a triumphant revival of the beloved X-Men: The Animated Series, featuring a swathe of familiar faces and exciting characters.
- The series proffers highly consequential narratives and bold storytelling, welcoming back classic characters like Juggernaut, Apocalypse, and Lady Deathstrike.
- Expect appearances from iconic characters like Colossus, Sabretooth, Shadow King, Omega Red, Mystique, and potential transformations like Magik and Longshot in upcoming episodes of X-Men '97.
X-Men '97 has already featured a litany of thrilling Marvel characters from X-Men: The Animated Series, but some notable missing examples would make great additions. X-Men '97 is the triumphant revival of the beloved and iconic X-Men: The Animated Series from the 1990s. The series has included a swathe of familiar faces and an ever-updating X-Men team. However, some other great characters with memorable appearances in X-Men: TAS will hopefully also feature in X-Men '97.
X-Men '97 has quickly proven itself to be one of Marvel's strongest television series - with X-Men '97 season 2 already confirmed. Though the series is not considered part of the MCU timeline, it has proffered some highly consequential narratives, recommencing the original story just months later. Numerous dynamic and exciting characters have already appeared in X-Men ’97, such as Mister Sinister, Mojo, and Nightcrawler. However, some other beloved X-Men: TAS should also be considered.
X-Men: The Animated Series episodes were aired out of their intended order, leading to some discrepancies in cataloging the episodes. This article reflects the original scripted episode order, which has since also been adopted by Disney+.
Related When Every MCU Avenger Appeared In Marvel's Animated Universe The Marvel Animated Universe boasted numerous interconnected television shows which featured many members of the MCU’s Avengers team before franchise.
10 Juggernaut Had Some Memorable X-Men: TAS Appearances Juggernaut Appeared In X-Men: TAS Season 1, Episode 8 "The Unstoppable Juggernaut;" Season 3, Episode 5 "The Phoenix Saga, Part III: The Cry of the Banshee;" & Season 4, Episode 1 "The Juggernaut Returns" Close In X-Men: The Animated Series, Juggernaut emerged as a formidable adversary, serving as the primary antagonist in two iconic episodes rooted in early X-Men comics. His towering presence and unstoppable force make him a tough villain,
challenging the X-Men in ways both physical and psychological. His third appearance during “The Dark Phoenix Saga” further solidifies his status as a complex threat, weaving thrilling fight sequences between Juggernaut, the X-Men, and the Shi’ar Imperial Guard.
Related 10 X-Men Villains Who Were Better In The Animated Show Than The Live-Action Movies X-Men: TAS offered many incredible performances in adapting classic X-Men villains, some of which were better than the movies.
Juggernaut’s abilities often allowed him to easily thwart a single X-Men member in X-Men: TAS, allowing for a fun exploration of team dynamics and complimentary mutant powers. This could be revisited with the new X-Men ’97 line-up in a captivating update. Juggernaut’s imposing presence and unstoppable nature would make him
a formidable villain to explore in a more mature narrative, which could explore his complicated and conflicted comic book history with more depth.
9 Apocalypse's Appearance Has Been Hinted At In X-Men '97 Apocalypse Appeared In 11 Episodes Of X-Men: TAS Close Apocalypse's presence in X-Men: The Animated Series was formidable, making him a recurring antagonist across numerous episodes. With his imposing stature and godlike powers, he emerged as one of the primary adversaries of the X-Men,
posing existential threats to both mutants and humans alike. His iconic appearance, characterized by his blue skin, advanced technology, and distinctive voice, solidified his status as a menacing force. Each encounter with Apocalypse showcased his relentless pursuit of power and domination, amplifying the series' tension and stakes.
Apocalypse’s return was teased in X-Men ’97, during episode 5, “Remember It.” As Cable arrives in Genosha, he warns Madelyne Pryor that “He is coming.” Though this could be a reference to the Sentinels that promptly attack the mutant nation, it is likely a reference to Apocalypse. Cable’s appearances in X-Men: TAS
typically concerned the fearsome Apocalypse, suggesting that his surprise appearance in “Remember It” could follow suit.
Related Every Way X-Men '97 Changed Cable's Origin Story X-Men ’97 has proffered a new origin story for fan-favorite X-Men: TAS character – Cable. However, they made some changes to his Marvel origins.
8 Lady Deathstrike Has Only Been Teased Lady Deathstrike Appeared In X-Men: TAS Season 3, Episodes 1-2 "Out Of The Past" Close Lady Deathstrike made a memorable mark in X-Men: The Animated Series, featuring prominently as the main antagonist in a gripping two-part episode. Her fierce combat skills and adamantium-laced enhancements posed a significant threat to the X-Men while exploring elements of Wolverine’s mysterious past. Despite her outstanding debut,
Lady Deathstrike was notably absent from subsequent episodes. Nevertheless, her intense presence in those episodes remains a standout moment in X-Men: The Animated Series.
Lady Deathstrike would be a compelling addition to X-Men ’97 and would serve to
rectify the missed opportunity in X-Men: TAS and include her in more adventures. Lady Deathstrike has been teased by the X-Men ’97 opening credits, which has added her to the villainous mutant line-up charging into battle. Morph also transforms into her in episode 2 for a brief moment. With Deathstrike’s appearance in the Deadpool & Wolverine trailer, including her in X-Men ’97 could allow for a more comic-accurate, modern rendition of the character.
Related 10 Characters X-Men '97 Has Done Better Than The Movies X-Men ’97 boasts some of the greatest depictions of Marvel’s mutants, many of which surpass their live-action counterparts in the X-Men movies.
7 Sabretooth Had A Compelling Arc In X-Men: TAS Sabretooth Appeared In 11 Episodes Of X-Men: TAS Close Sabretooth's presence in X-Men: The Animated Series was formidable,
anchoring pivotal narratives like Wolverine's enigmatic past and the chilling rise of the Friends of Humanity. His early introduction established him as a dynamic villain, appearing in numerous episodes with his ferocity and cunning. Yet, it was his role in shaping Wolverine's character and the bigotry of the Friends of Humanity that underscored his significance, leaving an indelible mark on the series' intricate tapestry of heroism and conflict.
As a prominent villain in X-Men: TAS with an iconic rivalry with Wolverine,
it is likely that Sabretooth will appear at some point in X-Men ’97. Sabretooth’s presence would add a dynamic extra layer to the continuing Friends of Humanity narrative established in X-Men ’97 episode 1 “To Me, My X-Men,” and seen in subsequent episodes. With his fearsome demeanor, Sabretooth would make a thrilling addition to X-Men ’97.
6 Colossus Is One Of The X-Men's Closest Allies Colossus Appeared In X-Men: TAS, Season 1, Episode 8 "The Unstoppable Juggernaut" & Season 2, Episode 4 "Red Dawn" Close In X-Men: The Animated Series, Colossus made impactful appearances in two standout episodes. His clash with Juggernaut showcased his immense strength and durability, while his confrontation with Omega Red highlighted his unwavering courage. Despite being invited to join the X-Men, Colossus chose to stay rooted in his Russian heritage, adding to his character's sense of duty and loyalty. His presence
brought a unique blend of power and integrity to the series, leaving a lasting impression on audiences.
Colossus is also likely to appear at some point in X-Men ’97, with
an animated legacy comparable to Nightcrawler – who has been introduced. Colossus would make a fun addition, as evidenced in episode 2, “Mutant Liberation Begins,” when Morph transforms into Colossus to fight the X-Cuitioner. As the X-Men team continues to evolve, Colossus could seamlessly be integrated, even temporarily, in X-Men ’97.
5 Shadow King Was A Dynamic Villain In X-Men: TAS Shadow King Appears In X-Men: TAS Season 2, Episode 3 "Whatever It Takes" & Season 4, Episode 5 Xavier Remembers" Close In X-Men: The Animated Series, Shadow King, a formidable psychic entity, made chilling appearances in two standout episodes. His ominous presence delved into the tumultuous pasts of Storm and Xavier, revealing intricate backstories. With striking visuals and psychedelic animation,
these episodes provided a gripping exploration of the characters' psyche. Shadow King's fearsome visage and menacing aura added some depth to the series, showcasing the profound impact of his influence on the X-Men's world.
Shadow King could continue X-Men ‘97’s impressive hallucinogenic animation sequences by thrusting the team into a psychic confrontation on the Astral Plane. With Storm’s place in the mutant world reaffirmed when she regained her powers, including Shadow King could continue exploring her character by
expounding upon her complicated relationship with Shadow King as seen in X-Men comics. As one of the most fearsome and dynamic X-Men villains, Shadow King’s inclusion in X-Men ’97 poses boundless possibilities.
4 Omega Red Was A Chilling Presence In X-Men: TAS Omega Red Appeared In X-Men: TAS Season 2, Episode 4 "Red Dawn" & Season 4, Episode 2 "A Deal With The Devil" Close The fearsome Omega Red starred in two memorable episodes of X-Men: The Animated Series, establishing him as one of the strongest villains in the series. Omega Red’s appearances were marked by genuine menace, proving to be a significant obstacle for the X-Men. Particularly noteworthy were the narratives that delved into Wolverine Colossus’s backstories, where Omega Red's sinister nature heightened the tension. Through his formidable abilities and imposing demeanor, Omega Red left an indelible mark on X-Men: TAS, becoming a memorable adversary for the X-Men.
X-Men ’97’s updated animation style and techniques could make Omega Red even more imposing and terrifying than his X-Men: TAS appearances. With a history associated with Wolverine’s past, the series could continue exploring their storied history, perhaps even adapting classic confrontations from X-Men comics. With only two appearances in X-Men: TAS, X-Men ’97 has ample opportunity to depict the fearsome foe in new narratives.
3 Mystique May Have Already Appeared In X-Men '97 Mystique Appeared In 10 Episodes Of X-Men: TAS Close In X-Men: The Animated Series, Mystique's enigmatic presence captivated audiences across 10 episodes. Her versatile abilities and shapeshifting prowess propelled her into pivotal roles within central narratives. Collaborating with formidable forces like Apocalypse and the Brotherhood of Mutants,
Mystique wove intricate webs of intrigue and deceit. Her appearances were often crucial threads in the rich tapestry of the series, adding depth, tension, and complexity to the X-Men's ongoing struggle against adversaries both familiar and enigmatic.
Mystique is yet to make an official debut in X-Men ’97. However, an X-Men ’97 theory has suggested that Mystique may have already appeared. In X-Men comics, Mystique spends some time disguised as the CIA agent Valerie Cooper. Valerie has appeared throughout X-Men ’97, often appearing during times of crisis. During these moments, Valerie’s eye color often changes from blue to yellow,
hinting that she may in fact be Mystique in disguise.
2 Illyana Rasputin's Magik Transformation Was Teased By Morph Omega Red Appeared In X-Men: TAS Season 2, Episode 4 "Red Dawn" & Season 2, Episode 8 "Time Fugitives - Part 2" Close Illyana Rasputin, also known as Magik, made notable appearances in X-Men: The Animated Series. In one episode, she is captured by the menacing Omega Red, only to be rescued by her stalwart older brother, Colossus, and the X-Men. This showcased their strong familial bond, which prompted Colossus to remain in Russia. Another significant episode sees Illyana being infected with the techno-organic virus, emphasizing her struggles against formidable adversaries and
the inherent dangers faced by mutants.
Illyana was teased in X-Men ’97 with some important developments. In X-Men ’97 episode 3, “Fire Made Flesh,” Morph transforms into Illyana while battling Madelyne Pryor. Initially, Morph assumes Illyana’s traditional comic book appearance before transforming into her Magik guise. Neither of these appeared previously in X-Men: TAS, where she had not gained her powers. Their appearance in X-Men ’97
suggests that Illyana’s transformation into Magik has occurred in the interim and could be explored hence.
1 Longshot Joined The X-Men After Leaving Mojo Longshot Appeared In X-Men: TAS Season 2, Episode 11 "Mojovision" & Season 3, Episode 10 "Longshot" Close Longshot made memorable appearances in two episodes of X-Men: The Animated Series, both featuring the nefarious Mojo as the primary antagonist. As a genetically engineered rebel from Mojoworld, Longshot brought his acrobatic prowess and luck-altering abilities to aid the X-Men in their battles against the manipulative Mojo. His enigmatic charm and mysterious background added intrigue to these episodes,
leaving the door open for subsequent appearances that never materialized.
X-Men ’97 episode 4, “Motendo,” would have been the perfect place to reintroduce Longshot, continuing his typical association with Mojo from X-Men: TAS. Longshot was, however, notably absent from the episode - though a Longshot stuffed toy is present in Jubilee's bedroom. Regardless, Longshot has a long history working with the X-Men in Marvel Comics,
joining the official team after escaping from Mojo’s clutches. Longshot could, therefore, be introduced in any narrative as a new member of the ever-evolving team in
X-Men ’97.
X-Men '97 Where to Watch *Availability in US
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Cast Jennifer Hale , Chris Potter , Alison Sealy-Smith , Lenore Zann , Cal Dodd , Catherine Disher , Adrian Hough , Ray Chase , Chris Britton , George Buza
Release Date March 20, 2024
Directors Jake Castorena
Seasons 1
Creator(s) Beau DeMayo
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