X-Men ’97 Showrunner Confirmed Marvel Mutant Was Deemed Off-Limits in Season 1

X-Men ’97 showrunner Beau DeMayo recently revealed that one distinct character was strictly prohibited from making an appearance in the first season, despite a rich roster of mutants featured in the series. The showrunner was questioned by user @ZeroWontMiss about the absence of a particular character:

To the surprise of many, DeMayo disclosed that Deadpool was “off-limits,” though he did not elaborate on the reasons behind this restriction (via X). No further explanations were provided at the time of the inquiry, leaving fans to speculate about the future involvement of the mercenary in this animated series.

While Marvel Studios has not commented further, the exclusion of Deadpool raises questions about licensing and character usage within the expansive Marvel universe, especially in light of the character’s immense popularity.

The Curious Case of Deadpool’s Absence from X-Men ’97

The animated revival of X-Men ’97 has stirred excitement among Marvel fans. However, the absence of Deadpool has sparked speculation. With Deadpool & Wolverine, slated to be Marvel Studios’ major film release this summer, questions have arisen about whether this upcoming film influenced Deadpool’s exclusion from X-Men ’97.

Marvel Studios, which is releasing its first film featuring Deadpool under its banner, may be positioning for a strategic debut. Historically, Deadpool only appeared as a brief transformation by Morph in X-Men: The Animated Series, never fully integrating into that universe’s main storyline. The first season of X-Men ’97 did not present an organic opportunity to introduce Deadpool, focusing instead on other narrative arcs and character developments.

The first season of X-Men ’97 did not present an organic opportunity to introduce Deadpool, focusing instead on other narrative arcs and character developments. This decision aligns with the show’s efforts to incorporate characters who were not part of the original animated series. For instance, Magik, who appeared only briefly in her non-powered form as Illyana Rasputin in the original series, has been introduced through Morph’s transformations in the new series.

X-Men ’97 Earns Early Season 2 Renewal

X-Men ’97 has swiftly conquered its fans, earning itself an early renewal for a second season even before the first had begun streaming on Disney+. The move shows the company’s confidence in the series, which operates independently of the broader MCU narrative, allowing for creative freedom without the constraints of aligning with the film franchise.

Currently under development, X-Men ’97 Season 2 will continue the narrative that has appealed to both newcomers and long-time fans of the original X-Men: The Animated Series.

The acclaimed Korean-based Studio Mir, known for their work on The Legend of Korra and My Adventures with Superman, continues to handle the animation. This partnership ensures the series maintains the visual style that has been integral to its appeal. The production team, led by producers Danielle Costa and Sean Gantka, remains largely intact despite significant changes in the writing department.

The series’ initial head writer and creator, Beau DeMayo, played a key role in developing the first two seasons but was unexpectedly dismissed just days before the premiere of Season 1. Brad Winderbaum, head of streaming, television, and animation at Marvel Studios, has expressed confidence in the team’s ability to maintain the show’s quality and direction following DeMayo’s departure, though a replacement head writer has not yet been announced.