Meet the Mutants: An In-Depth Look at the X-Men 97 Series Characters
The announcement of X-Men ’97 has sent waves of excitement through the fan community, rekindling the love for a show that many grew up watching in the 90s. This series isn’t just a reboot; it’s a continuation of the storylines and character arcs that made the original ’90s animated series a landmark in superhero animation. With a blend of nostalgia and fresh storytelling, X-Men ’97 is poised to introduce a new generation to the X-Men while satisfying the long-standing fans craving for more mutant action.
Let’s revisit the iconic characters in the series, and introduce you to them if you’re a newbie:
Wolverine (voiced by Cathal J Dodd)
With his adamantium claws and healing factor, Wolverine continues to be the team’s rugged anti-hero. Also known as Logan, he is a mutant with animal-keen senses, enhanced physical capabilities, a powerful regenerative ability known as a healing factor, and three retractable claws in each hand. His past is shrouded in mystery and includes military service, participation in the Weapon X program, which bonded the indestructible metal alloy adamantium to his skeleton, and a long history with the X-Men. Wolverine is known for his gruff demeanor, fierce loyalty, and struggle with his primal instincts versus his desire to be a hero.
Jean Grey (voiced by Jennifer Hale)
The powerful telepath and telekinetic, stands at the center of many of the series’ most dramatic moments. Jean Grey, originally known as Marvel Girl, is a powerful member of the X-Men with telepathic and telekinetic abilities. As one of the original five X-Men, her powers include reading minds, communicating telepathically, and manipulating objects with her mind. Jean’s character is deeply intertwined with the Phoenix Force, a cosmic entity that boosts her abilities to god-like levels but also influences her struggle between good and evil. Her relationship with Cyclops and her central role in the Phoenix Saga are pivotal to her character development and the X-Men storyline.
Cyclops (voiced by Ray Chase)
Cyclops, (also known as Scott Summers) is a core member of the X-Men with the ability to emit powerful beams of energy from his eyes, which he cannot control without the aid of special eyewear, usually ruby-quartz lenses. As a natural leader, Cyclops has often been the field leader of the X-Men, known for his strategic mind, strong sense of duty, and commitment to the peaceful coexistence of mutants and humans. His character is defined by his leadership qualities, dedication to the mutant cause, and complex relationships with other members of the X-Men, including his love interest Jean Grey and his brother Havok.
Rogue (voiced by Lenore Zann)
With a heart of gold and independent nature, Rogue (also known as Anna Marie) is a compelling X-Men character renowned for her mutant ability to absorb the powers, memories, and life force of others through physical touch. This power is both her greatest strength and curse, leading to complex relationships with those around her, including her deeply romantic and troubled connection with Gambit. Rogue’s journey from villain to hero, struggling with her identity and the consequences of her powers, showcases her resilience and quest for redemption.
Storm (voiced by Alison Sealy-Smith)
With her command over the weather, Storm is not just a powerful mutant; she’s a queen in her own right. Storm, also known as Ororo Munroe, is celebrated for her powerful ability to control weather patterns, enabling her to generate storms, lightning, and even manipulate atmospheric conditions on a massive scale. Born with her mutant abilities, she was once worshipped as a goddess before joining the X-Men. Storm is not only a formidable fighter but also a leader, having served as the head of the X-Men team at various times.
Gambit (voiced by A. J. LoCascio)
Gambit, also known as Remy LeBeau, is a charismatic and cunning character known for his Cajun accent, charm, and thief background. He possesses the mutant ability to charge inanimate objects with kinetic energy, causing them to explode, with his signature weapon being a deck of playing cards that he turns into explosive projectiles. Gambit’s agility and hand-to-hand combat skills, combined with his kinetic energy powers, make him a formidable opponent.
Beast (voiced by George Buza)
Beast, originally known as Hank McCoy, is a key member of the X-Men with a brilliant intellect and a physical appearance that belies his gentle nature. First appearing in “X-Men” #1 in 1963, created by writer Stan Lee and artist Jack Kirby, Beast started as a human-looking mutant with extraordinary agility and strength. His mutation evolved over time, transforming him into a blue-furred, ape-like creature, further enhancing his physical abilities while maintaining his sharp mind.
Jubilee (voiced by Holly Chou)
Jubilee is known for her ability to generate pyrotechnic energy blasts from her hands, resembling fireworks. Discovered as a mall rat with a knack for creating dazzling light shows, she joined the X-Men and found a new family among them. Jubilee’s powers are not just for show; they can be used for stunning, blinding, or even causing damage to her opponents. Over time, her character has evolved from a teenage sidekick to a more mature and capable hero, facing challenges that test her strength and resolve.
The Promise of X-Men ’97
As we look forward to the release of X-Men ’97, anticipation builds for the stories that will unfold. Will Jean Grey’s Phoenix saga take a new turn? How will Wolverine navigate his tumultuous past and uncertain future? And what new threats will emerge to challenge the ideals of the X-Men?
We can’t wait to see how the new series honors its roots while breaking new ground. Which character’s journey are you most excited to follow?
X-Men 97 will premiere on Disney Plus on March 20th.
Shop our brand new officially licensed X-Men ’97 Logo Light here: Amazon UK
Check out the Official Trailer here:
