'X-Men '97' Episode 6: From Nightcrawler to Evolutionary War, 5 Easter eggs you may have missed in 'Lifedeath- Part 2'
Contains spoilers for 'X-Men '97'
LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA: 'X-Men '97' Episode 6, titled 'Lifedeath- Part 2', is packed with engaging Easter eggs and callbacks, not only to the beloved original animated series but also to Marvel comics and the MCU.
This episode marks a compelling continuation of the storylines introduced in earlier episodes, particularly focusing on Storm's emotional and physical battles. From episode 4, we've seen her confronting significant challenges with the help of Forge, trying to regain her strength and powers.
Additionally, this episode celebrates the dramatic return of Professor Charles Xavier. Fans will be relieved to see him alive, recovering from severe injuries he suffered in the finale of the original X-Men series, thanks to the advanced healing techniques of the Shi'ar healers.
Here, we highlight 5 of the most significant Easter eggs and references in 'X-Men '97' Episode 6, enriching the viewing experience with layers of depth and nostalgia.
'X-Men '97' intro acknowledges lost members
'X-Men '97' Episode 6 starts with a stark reminder of the heavy losses from 'X-Men '97' Episode 5's 'Fall of Genosha'.
In a devastating attack on Genosha, both Magneto and Gambit were killed by the formidable Wild Sentinel. Reflecting their tragic departures, their names have been sadly removed from the opening credits of Episode 6, underscoring the impact of their absence.
While there's a chance they might be resurrected, as of now, Magneto and Gambit are confirmed dead.
Nightcrawler is X-Men's latest member
Despite the loss of Magneto and Gambit from the 'X-Men '97' lineup, the opening credits introduce an exciting new member. Surviving the harsh events of 'Fall of Genosha', Kurt Wagner's Nightcrawler has now joined the official X-Men team.
Previously, Nightcrawler only appeared as a guest in the original 'X-Men' animated series, so his promotion to a full-time X-Man is a thrilling development and a well-earned spot for this beloved teleporting mutant.
Professor X's iconic return
'X-Men '97' Episode 6 confirms what fans had anticipated from the conclusion of the original 'X-Men' series. After being taken by the Shi'ar for healing, Professor Charles Xavier is alive and residing in space as the consort of his love, Lilandra. This storyline echoes his role in the comics, where he also becomes Lilandra's partner.
In 'X-Men '97', Xavier initially decides to forsake all memories of Earth and the X-Men to commit fully to Lilandra and lead the Shi'ar. However, learning about the 'Fall of Genosha' through the astral plane shifts his plans drastically.
Now, Xavier is set on leaving Lilandra to return to Earth and reunite with his X-Men.
Humans referred to as 'Terran'
In 'X-Men '97' episode 6, the Shi'ar frequently call Xavier a "Terran," a term used to describe individuals from Earth.
While the original 'X-Men' series mentioned it briefly, the term gained wider recognition in the Marvel Cinematic Universe, particularly since 'Guardians of the Galaxy'.
The consistent use of "Terran" in 'X-Men '97' can be seen as a subtle nod to the MCU, heightening excitement for the upcoming introduction of mutants in this larger cinematic universe.
Evolutionary War teased during the climax of Episode 6
When Forge switches on the news, both he and Storm are stunned to hear about the recent Fall of Genosha.
News anchor Trish Tilby describes it as "the first salvo in an Evolutionary War," likely referencing the Marvel Comics crossover event of the same name, where the X-Men and other heroes battled the High Evolutionary.
This suggests the possibility of the High Evolutionary's involvement in the Genosha attack, especially considering his appearance in the original 'X-Men' series. The High Evolutionary was also featured in the MCU in 2023's 'Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 3'.
'X-Men '97' trailer
6 episodes of 'X-Men '97' are streaming on Disney+