'X-Men '97': From Deadpool to Apocalypse, 5 iconic characters that should appear in Disney+ series
LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA: Disney+ has released five episodes of 'X-Men '97', their newest animated series, stirring up a fervent fanbase spanning all ages. Continuing the storyline of the beloved 'X-Men: The Animated Series', the show seamlessly carries on its iconic tale.
Fans loved how the original series stayed true to the cherished comic book stories, and so far, the new series meets those high standards and expectations.
Many familiar faces from the original series, like Morph and Mister Sinister, have returned in 'X-Men '97'. However, fans are hungry for more. With a vast universe of characters to draw from, here are 5 iconic figures we're itching to see make a comeback or debut in the series.
Professor X
How 'X-Men '97' handles Professor X could shape the entire series, as fans remember the finale where the Shi’ar took away his body. This left Magneto in charge of the X-Men, a storyline drawn straight from the comics.
Debating if 'X-Men '97' can work without Professor X is valid. However, for Marvel Studios aiming for nostalgia, his return seems necessary. It's important to note that the original series ended abruptly due to Marvel’s bankruptcy, with Saban Entertainment handling the last season, leading to a drop in quality.
As 'X-Men: The Animated Series' concluded in 1997, 'X-Men '97' might retcon its ending to give Professor X a different fate and continue the series as it originally deserved.
Even though Professor X is believed to be dead in 'X-Men '97', there's a possibility he could be resurrected. Additionally, considering Magneto's recent death in the series, the X-Men are in need of a new leader. This presents the perfect opportunity to reintroduce Professor X to the show.
However, while there are no rumors about Professor X's return, there's still hope since 'X-Men '97' has 5 more episodes left to air.
Deadpool
In the '90s 'X-Men' series, Deadpool didn't quite resemble the Ryan Reynolds version we know today. While he had some fourth-wall-breaking moments, his trademark humor wasn't as prominent then, making him more of an easter egg.
Even though these earlier versions are better than the mouthless rendition in 'X-Men Origins: Wolverine', an animated Deadpool could add excitement to 'X-Men '97'. Ryan Reynolds enjoys portraying Wade Wilson, and his inclusion could inject a fresh vibe into the series.
With 'Deadpool & Wolverine' on the horizon, it would be thrilling to witness an animated rendition of Ryan Reynolds' Deadpool in 'X-Men '97', teasing his forthcoming MCU debut. That would truly capture Deadpool's essence!
Omega Red
Introduced in 1992, Omega Red quickly became a notable adversary for the X-Men, embodying the essence of a Soviet villain post-Cold War. In the 'X-Men' animated series, he clashed with the team four times, proving himself as a formidable foe who couldn't be killed.
Omega Red stands out for his distinct appearance and array of powers, including superhuman abilities, life-draining tendrils, and deadly spores, all encased in Soviet carbonadium armor, akin to Russian adamantium.
Given Marvel Studios' revival of the Red Guardian in 'Black Widow', reintroducing another relic from the Cold War seems plausible.
Psylocke
Betsy Braddock, the telepathic and telekinetic ninja, has garnered a dedicated fan following. However, her appearances outside of the comics have often left fans disappointed. Particularly, her portrayal in two of Fox's worst X-Men movies, 'The Last Stand' and 'Apocalypse', fell short of expectations.
In 'The Last Stand', the character barely resembled her comic counterpart, while in 'Apocalypse', although a better attempt was made, she lacked a meaningful backstory.
Originally, Psylocke was a popular choice in some of the best X-Men video games. With Marvel exploring the possibility of using her brother, Captain Britain, the studio could easily introduce two characters at once.
Apocalypse
In 'X-Men: Apocalypse', the portrayal of the ancient and powerful mutant Apocalypse, played by the talented Oscar Isaac, received criticism for its CGI execution. Instead of the towering, godlike figure from the comics, Isaac underwent a lengthy makeup process involving prosthetics, resulting in a more human appearance.
Despite his appearance in the '90s animated series, it's difficult to envision the X-Men without the looming threat of Apocalypse.
His presence in the series often led to gripping storylines, and animation could fully showcase the immense potential of his powers, including his four horsemen.
'X-Men '97' trailer
5 episodes of 'X-Men '97' are streaming now on Disney+