Saikiran Uppuluri
Saikiran Uppuluri
While the first season of the highly acclaimed X-Men ’97 series on Disney+ brought back many beloved mutant characters from the iconic 90s animated series, one fan-favorite was noticeably absent – Deadpool. However, according to showrunner Beau DeMayo, this wasn’t an oversight, but rather a restriction imposed by Marvel Studios.
In response to a fan inquiry on X/Twitter, DeMayo revealed that the Merc with a Mouth was “off-limits” for the show’s first season. This surprising revelation has left fans speculating about the reasons behind this decision and whether Deadpool might finally make his long-awaited appearance in the upcoming second season.
One plausible explanation could be tied to the highly anticipated Deadpool & Wolverine film, set to hit theaters this summer. As this movie marks Deadpool’s official debut in the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU), Marvel Studios may have wanted to keep the character exclusive to the big screen for now, at least until after the film’s release.
However, with X-Men ’97 Season 2 already confirmed and likely in production, the door could be open for Deadpool’s eventual arrival in the animated series. Introducing the fan-favorite anti-hero would not only delight viewers but also provide an opportunity for the show to explore new storylines and dynamics within the X-Men universe.
One intriguing possibility could be the formation of X-Force, the militant mutant team that Deadpool is closely associated with in the comics. Bringing together characters like Cable, Domino, and others already established in the X-Men ’97 continuity could pave the way for exciting new adventures and a fresh take on the X-Force mythos.
Moreover, Deadpool’s penchant for breaking the fourth wall could inject a unique meta-narrative element into the series, allowing for self-aware humor and commentary that sets it apart from traditional superhero storytelling.
If Marvel Studios decides to bring in Ryan Reynolds to voice Deadpool in the animated series, it could serve as a tantalizing connection between the show and the live-action MCU, further blurring the lines between the two worlds.
Regardless of the reasons behind Deadpool’s absence in Season 1, fans remain hopeful that the character will eventually make his mark in X-Men ’97. With the show’s creative team already pushing boundaries and exploring uncharted territories, the addition of the Merc with a Mouth could take the series to even greater heights of excitement and hilarity.
As we eagerly await news on X-Men ’97 Season 2, the speculation and anticipation surrounding Deadpool’s potential involvement will undoubtedly continue to grow, fueling the enthusiasm of fans who have embraced this revival of a beloved animated classic.
