X-Men ’97: Reviving a Classic for a New Generation

X-Men ’97 marks the triumphant return of Marvel’s beloved mutant superheroes to the small screen. Premiering on March 20, 2024, exclusively on Disney+, this animated series serves as a direct continuation of the iconic  X-Men: The Animated Series from the 1990s, picking up right where the original left off.

A Seamless Continuation

The series begins one year after the events of the original show’s finale, “Graduation Day” (1997). In the aftermath of Professor Charles Xavier’s departure from Earth with the alien Shi’ar, the X-Men strive to uphold his dream of peaceful coexistence between mutants and humans. The first episode introduces Roberto da Costa, also known as Sunspot, whom the team rescues from the anti-mutant group Friends of Humanity. This encounter leads them to confront Sentinel creator Bolivar Trask, culminating in a mission to dismantle remnants of Sentinel technology in a Saharan junkyard. The episode concludes with Cyclops and a pregnant Jean Grey contemplating leaving the team to raise their child, only to be interrupted by Magneto, who reveals that Xavier has entrusted him with the leadership of the X-Men and the school.

Familiar Faces and New Challenges

The series brings back core characters such as Cyclops, Jean Grey, Storm, Wolverine, Morph, Rogue, and Charles Xavier. Notably, several original voice actors reprise their roles, including Cal Dodd as Wolverine, Lenore Zann as Rogue, and George Buza as Beast, adding a layer of authenticity and nostalgia for longtime fans.

In the second episode, Magneto endeavors to prove himself as a reformed leader by saving both humans and mutants without resorting to violence. However, during his trial at the United Nations headquarters, the Friends of Humanity staged an attack. Storm heroically takes a depowering blast meant for Magneto, leading to a significant storyline where she loses her abilities and embarks on a journey of self-discovery.

Season Structure and Release

The inaugural season consists of ten episodes, released weekly on Disney+ from March 20 to May 15, 2024. The release schedule was as follows:

– Episodes 1 & 2: March 20, 2024
– Episode 3: March 27, 2024
– Episode 4: April 3, 2024
– Episode 5: April 10, 2024
– Episode 6: April 17, 2024
– Episode 7: April 24, 2024
– Episode 8: May 1, 2024
– Episode 9: May 8, 2024
– Episode 10: May 15, 2024

Looking Ahead

Fans eagerly awaiting the continuation of the series will need to exercise patience. Marvel’s Head of Television and Streaming, Brad Winderbaum, has confirmed that Season 2 of *X-Men ’97* is slated for release in 2026. citeturn0search8 Additionally, a third season is developing, underscoring Marvel’s commitment to revitalizing this cherished franchise.

A Nostalgic Yet Fresh Experience

X-Men ’97 successfully balances nostalgia with fresh storytelling, appealing to longtime fans and newcomers. By retaining the original animation style and voice cast while introducing contemporary narratives, the series honors its legacy and explores new dimensions of the X-Men universe. As the mutants face evolving challenges and alliances, viewers can anticipate a compelling blend of action, drama, and character development in the episodes to come.