X-Men '97 will be the continuation of the beloved X-Men animated series from the early 1990s. The original show was a massive hit and helped fuel the popularity of Saturday morning cartoons during its era. Bringing it back in the form of X-Men '97 can show how more of Marvel's animated series could fit into the Marvel Cinematic Universe -- or even re-establish the Marvel Animation brand on their own.
X-Men '97 will pick up where the original show left off, with many of the original cast members and the same iconic animation style. The series can delve into a plethora of new X-Men stories with both classic and new characters. San Diego Comic-Con 2022 revealed that Magneto will be leading the X-Men and have a new costume to match that role. By mixing old and new, the upcoming series will provide a new generation with the excitement of the X-Men while continuing the legacy that the original show began.
It also opens the door for Marvel to revive some of their other massive animated successes like the 1994 Spider-Man series or Avengers: Earth's Mightiest Heroes. The success of any additional revivals would allow Marvel to appeal more to families and allow it to develop its brand beyond the MCU. People who grew up with these iconic animated series could share them with the next generation and relive the joy they originally experienced by getting to see a revival. By developing new animated series or reviving old ones, Marvel can create a large animated presence alongside its live-action one.
X-Men '97 and other shows could live outside the MCU -- or integrate with it. Now that the MCU is expanding its own multiverse, the shows don't need many ties to the MCU to be connected. There could be a one-episode crossover or an animated character could move over to appear in live-action. It may be more beneficial to animated series if they stay separate from the MCU, since that would allow for more storytelling freedom and they can develop the characters in their own way. But they can also find their way into the live-action universe and further one of entertainment's biggest brands.
X-Men '97 may be the perfect example of how to revive an old series. It looks to be taking all the elements that were wonderful from the original series and updating them for a modern audience. If this same approach is applied to other nostalgic series, then Marvel could create some truly special animated entertainment. Spider-Man: Freshman Year will be telling a new take on Spidey's origin. Animated shows can be used to tell different stories about the same character, while still expanding the universe.
Bringing back X-Men '97 creates a huge opportunity for Marvel. It can re-establish its Marvel Animation brand that dominated the airwaves in the 1990s. Furthermore, it can easily integrate those stories and characters into the MCU through crossover opportunities. The return of the X-Men is only the first step in Marvel's animated future.
X-Men '97 is expected to premiere in Fall 2023 on Disney+.