X-Men '97 is the Disney+ revival of the classic 1990s animated series X-Men: The Animated Series. Premiering in 2024, it picks up a few months after the original left off, continuing the story of Marvel's most famous mutant team with updated animation, modern storytelling, and the same spirit that made the original a fan favorite. Xavier is still in space and in his absence, Cyclops has stepped into the leadership of the team, that is until an unexpected new leader emerges: Magneto.
Anyone who grew up in the 90s would love this show. Season 5 of the original show had budget cuts, so it didn't really fit the quality of the rest of the show, but this continuation more than makes up for it. I feel like a kid again waiting for this to release every week. The only thing that would have made it better was if they released it on Saturday morning to bring back the Saturday morning cartoon feeling.
Overview and Premise
The show follows the X-Men as they face new threats to mutantkind while dealing with the fallout of Professor Xavier's departure. Magneto steps into a leadership role, forcing the team to navigate shifting alliances, political tension, and battles against both human and mutant adversaries. The revival keeps the serialized storytelling of the original, blending superhero action with themes of prejudice, identity, and family.
The Cast and Characters
Cyclops, played by Ray Chase, is Scott Summers, the disciplined, steady leader of the X-Men. He carries the weight of responsibility on his shoulders, constantly trying to balance duty with the personal life that keeps slipping through the cracks. His leadership is firm, but never without emotional cost.
Jean Grey, voiced by Jennifer Hale, stands as the emotional anchor of the team. She's a powerful telepath and telekinetic whose compassion and inner strength make her central to the X-Men's identity. Jean's presence grounds the group, especially when tensions rise.
Wolverine, brought to life by Cal Dodd, is the gruff, clawed antihero whose loyalty and rage define him. Logan is the team's blunt instrument, the one who charges headfirst into danger, yet he's also the reluctant heart of the group when it matters most.
Storm, voiced by Alison Sealy-Smith, brings regal authority and unmatched wisdom. As Ororo Munroe, she commands the weather and the respect of everyone around her. Storm's calm strength and leadership make her one of the team's most trusted voices.
Magneto, portrayed by Matthew Waterson, steps into Xavier's role as leader, a dramatic shift for a character who was once their greatest enemy. His presence forces the X-Men to navigate a complicated mix of trust, ideology, and history as they adjust to his new position.
Rogue, Gambit, Beast, Jubilee, and Morph return as fan favorites, each voiced by actors who help carry the legacy of the original series into the revival. Their arcs and conflicts give X-Men '97 its ensemble depth, tying the show directly back to the spirit and emotional continuity of the 1990s classic.
Voice actors from the original series reprise many roles, giving the revival continuity and authenticity. New cast members join to expand the roster and bring fresh energy to the ensemble.
Season 1
Season 1 of X-Men '97 premiered in March 2024 with ten episodes. The storyline focused on Magneto's leadership, the team's struggle to adapt, and new enemies rising to challenge mutant survival. Themes of prejudice and acceptance remain central, echoing the original series while updating the conflicts for modern audiences.
Themes and Tone
X-Men '97 continues the tradition of tackling social issues through superhero storytelling. The show explores discrimination, loyalty, and the meaning of family, all while delivering high-stakes battles and character-driven drama. The animation is sharper and more fluid than the 1990s original, but the tone remains faithful: serious, heartfelt, and occasionally lightened by humor.
Will There Be an X-Men '97 Season 2?
Yes. X-Men '97 was renewed and Season 2 is on the way, continuing the story after the first season's explosive finale. The revival was a hit for Marvel Animation and Disney+, and the confirmed follow-up keeps the momentum going for a show that reintroduced the classic X-Men to a new generation.
Why X-Men '97 Endures
The revival succeeds because it honors the legacy of the original while expanding its scope. Fans of the 1990s series get the nostalgia of familiar voices and storylines, while new viewers get a modern superhero drama with depth. X-Men '97 proves that the themes of prejudice, identity, and unity are as relevant today as they were in the 1990s, honoring the original series while standing fully on its own.
