'X-Men '97': Marvel subtly confirms Nightcrawler as Gambit's replacement
Contains spoilers for 'X-Men '97'
LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA: Marvel's latest show, 'X-Men '97', has officially revealed that Gambit has been replaced. In a tragic turn of events during Episode 5, titled 'The Fall of Genosha', Remy LeBeau aka Gambit sacrificed himself to destroy a massive Wild Sentinel, leading to the destruction of the mutant island nation and the loss of countless lives.
As a result, a new mutant will be joining the X-Men. In Episode 6 which aired on Disney+ on Wednesday, April 17, it's revealed that Professor Charles Xavier is alive and well, accompanied by Empress Lilandra of the Shi'ar in the far reaches of space.
Additionally, Storm struggles to regain her powers, which were taken from her in a previous episode. The opening credits of the new episode tease that Kurt Wagner's Nightcrawler will join the X-Men's roster, replacing Gambit.
'X-Men '97' intro replaces Gambit's title card with Nightcrawler's name card
In 'X-Men '97' Episode 6, the opening credits underwent significant changes. New scenes from the original series were added, but notably, the name cards for both Magneto and Gambit were removed, presumably due to their deaths.
While there's a slim chance Magneto survived, Gambit's fate was tragically confirmed in Episode 5. His sacrifice to save Genosha's survivors from the Wild Sentinel was depicted, leaving no doubt about his death.
However, the opening credits introduced an exciting addition: Nightcrawler! Despite only making guest appearances in the original series, Kurt Wagner is now listed as a member of the X-Men.
This decision aligns with his involvement in assisting Genosha's leadership before its destruction. With Genosha in ruins, it's logical for Nightcrawler to join the remaining X-Men in their ongoing fight for mutant-kind.
Is Nightcrawler officially an X-Man?
In 'X-Men '97', Nightcrawler makes a dramatic entrance, perching on his own name and brandishing his twin swords from the original comics, a first for the animated universe. This teaser hints at significant developments for Kurt Wagner in the series.
Storm's recovery of her powers as an omega-level mutant is a crucial indicator of Nightcrawler's potential recruitment into the X-Men. Her return to her classic black costume and the opening credits hinting at Nightcrawler's official status suggests a nod to 1975's comic 'Giant-Size X-Men #1'.
This issue marked Storm's debut in her black costume and Nightcrawler's joining of the team. Perhaps this signals the possibility of Colossus also becoming an official member, as he too had limited appearances in the original series.
Is Nightcrawler a good replacement for Gambit?
Yes, with Gambit's apparent death, Nightcrawler emerges as a fitting replacement for the charismatic mutant.
Kurt shares similarities with Remy in both personality and powerful abilities, making him a natural fit for the team. Like Gambit, Nightcrawler's teleportation skills offer endless possibilities for dynamic teamwork within the X-Men, as demonstrated by Gambit's collaboration with Wolverine in the series premiere.
The Genosha tragedy leaves the entire X-Men roster in mourning, and Nightcrawler's unwavering faith is poised to be a source of strength for the team as they navigate their grief.
His presence may help the X-Men come to terms with their loss and inspire them to continue their mission of protecting mutantkind and advocating for coexistence with humanity, despite the challenges ahead.
Witnessing Nightcrawler's official induction as an X-Man in 'X-Men '97' promises to be an exciting development as the series progresses.
'X-Men '97' official trailer
6 episodes of 'X-Men '97' are now streaming on Disney+