'X-Men '97' Episode 8 Ending Explained: Professor X finally returns as Magneto declares war on humans
Contains spoilers for 'X-Men '97'
LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA: The latest episode of 'X-Men '97', called 'Tolerance Is Extinction, Pt. 1', aired on Wednesday, May 1. It's the first of the three-part finale for the show.
The show took a darker turn than its predecessor 'X-Men: The Animated Series', especially noticeable after the attack on Genosha.
In Episode 7, the X-Men, still reeling from that attack, hunted down Boliver Trask. What they found shocked them: a new, scarier breed of Sentinel, not just Trask's doing, but also involving Mister Sinister and Bastion.
Episode 8 which is part of the game-changing finale, didn't hold back either. With stunning moments like Spider-Man's cameo, 'Tolerance Is Extinction, Part 1' sets the stage for what's sure to be a gripping conclusion.
Here's a quick rundown of how 'X-Men '97' Episode 8, titled 'Tolerance Is Extinction, Pt. 1', concluded.
Professor X finally returns to set things straight
In the closing moments of Episode 8 of 'X-Men '97', the season's defining words, "To Me, My X-Men," were spoken once again as Charles Xavier made a stunning return. After returning from the Shi'ar Empire, he's back to aid his X-Men in their crucial battle against Bastion.
Seeing Professor X back in the opening credits assured viewers of a thrilling episode ahead, and it didn't disappoint. Bastion manipulates public opinion against mutants by revealing that the Professor is alive, painting the heroes as deceivers.
With Prime Sentinels under Bastian's control, the Professor's return couldn't have come at a better time.
Now, Charles (Professor X) is crucial in shifting the tide, using his reputation as a peacemaker. Can he convince the world that mutants are the true victims? And with Magneto apparently gearing up for war, will it even matter?
Regardless, it's a joy to have Charles back in action after too long a hiatus. Welcome back, Professor.
Magneto officially declares war against humankind
In last week's episode of 'X-Men '97', a shocking revelation unfolded: Magneto was alive all along, imprisoned by Bastion with a power-dampening collar.
When Valerie Cooper, revealed to be in league with Bastion and Mister Sinister, freed him, Magneto unleashed his powers, halting the Prime Sentinels' rampage and saving mutants worldwide.
While Magneto's actions were undoubtedly heroic, they also raised concerns about his intentions going forward. Morph noted his heroism, but Wolverine saw it as a declaration of war.
With Magneto's history, this could spell trouble for everyone. Is he reverting to his darker ways? Valerie Cooper's declaration, "Magneto was right," referring to his speech in 'X-Men' '97 Episode 2, adds complexity to the situation.
Additionally, with Professor Xavier leading the X-Men once more, will Magneto oppose his old friend? Or will they join forces to dismantle Operation Zero Tolerance and aid their fellow mutants?
Bastian's origins are comic-accurate in 'X-Men'97'
Bastion debuted in the closing moments of 'X-Men '97' Episode 7, revealing himself as the mastermind behind the Genosha attacks. He eliminated Henry Peter Gyrich and informed Mister Sinister of his plan to dismantle the X-Men.
Bastion also disclosed Magneto's survival after the Genosha incident.
In 'Tolerance Is Extinction', Bastion showcased himself as a formidable foe. His Operation Zero Tolerance poses a significant threat, reminiscent of his portrayal in Marvel Comics.
Introduced in 2006, Bastion, whose real name is Sebastion Gilberti, swiftly ascended the US military ranks. He formed OZT: Operation Zero Tolerance, an anti-mutant strike force.
Initially shrouded in mystery, it was later revealed that he was a fusion of two entities: Master Mold and Nimrod, which meant he was neither human nor mutant.
Bastion's ability to identify mutants in a crowd and resist the Phoenix's mind-reading powers added to his enigmatic persona, echoing the early days of his comic book depiction. 'X-Men '97' effectively captures this sense of dread and intrigue.
The first part of the 'X-Men '97' three-parter finale has concluded. With only two episodes left in this season, buckle up for a bumpy ride!
8 episodes of 'X-Men '97' are now streaming exclusively on Disney+
