X-Men ’97 is a captivating animated series where mutant powers, witty character banter, and dynamic voice acting collide with addictive storytelling. It continues one of the most iconic shows of all time, X-Men, The Animated Series, and highlights the power of incredible voice actors for generations of fans and creators. So, what can you learn from this fan-favorite show about producing iconic video projects?
At Voice123 – where you’ll find phenomenal animation voice actors – we’ve got inspirational ideas for your 2024 video projects. In this post, we’ll explore the revival of X-Men, The Animated Series, the cast of the new series, and how those characters can inspire your next project.
Get ready to unite with these mutants for your creative success!
What is X-Men ’97?
X-Men ’97 is an animated TV series that is a continuation of the iconic X-Men: The Animated Series that aired from 1992 to 1997 on Fox’s Kids Network. The executive producer, Brad Winderbaum, commented that after 27 years, they decided to continue the story. This was because it was the first opportunity they had to do it. The new series is set in its own separate universe, allowing the producers to focus on new characters and stories without connecting them to the Marvel Cinematic Universe.
The original series received praise for its faithful adaptation of comic book storylines, complex characters, and mature themes. X-Men ’97 has a 98% score on RottenTomatoes, with some reviews calling the first two episodes the greatest TV episodes ever created. It generated a fan following that spans generations, including children, adults, and comic-book enthusiasts.
The follow-up continues a year after the original series ended, with Professor X currently healing off-planet after being shot with an energy disrupter by Henry Gyrich. The team continues their missions in his absence, only to face catastrophic challenges and a legal UN sanction.
The cast of X-Men ’97
The cast of X-Men ’97 stayed the same as that of X-Men, The Animated Series, because the original voice actors were fan favorites. This has proved crucial to the show’s success. Marvel Studios President Kevin Feige told the producers that to green light X-men ’97, the original theme song and voice cast had to be used.
Here are the main cast of X-Men ’97:
- Ray Chase voices Scott Summers, Cyclops, a mutant with energy beam eyes. Chase replaces the original voice actor, Norm Spencer, who died in 2020.
- Jennifer Hale voices Jean Grey, Scott’s wife, and a mutant telepath. Hale replaces the original voice actor, Catherine Disher, who instead voices Dr. Valerie Cooper, the liaison for mutant affairs.
- Alison Sealy-Smith voices Ororo Munroe, Storm, a mutant who controls the weather, but her personality has mellowed in the new show.
- Cal Dodd voices Logan, Wolverine, a brash mutant with healing powers and an indestructible Adamantium skeleton.
- Lenore Zann voices Rogue, a mutant who can absorb the memories, powers, and energy of others.
- George Buza voices Henry “Hank” McCoy, Beast, a mutant scientist from the X-Men, The Animated Series with superhuman strength and blue fur.
- A. J. LoCascio voices Remy LeBeau, Gambit, a mutant who charges objects with explosive kinetic energy.
- Holly Chou voices Jubilation Lee, Jubilee, who is the youngest team member capable of creating firework-like explosions.
- Matthew Waterson voices Erik Lehnsherr, Magneto, the new leader of the X-Men.
- Adrian Hough voices Kurt Wagner, Nightcrawler, a teleporting mutant.
- Isaac Robinson-Smith voices Lucas Bishop, a mutant from the future who joined the X-Men during the time skip.
- J. P. Karliak voices Morph and replaces Ron Rubin’s original voice, a shapeshifting mutant who was saved from death by Mister Sinister and brainwashed.
What makes the voice cast of X-Men ’97 a fan-favorite
The voice cast of X-Men ’97 is a favorite because it creates strong memories of the series for fans of the original show. The return of the X-Men ’97 characters also brings back iconic personalities like Cal Dodd’s gruff tone for Wolverine and Lenore Zann’s Southern accent for Rogue. These familiar voice styles spark powerful nostalgic connections from fans, instantly transporting them back to their childhoods. The cast of X-Men ’97 had to audition for their roles so the producers could cast authentic voices that stayed true to each X-Men ’97 character. As a result, X-Men ’97 is considered Marvel’s best release in years.
How X-Men ’97 can inspire your next video project
The series demonstrates that animation isn’t just for kids. It’s a global entertainment tool that can unfold complex narratives for audiences. The season premiere had 4 million views in the first five days, making it Disney’s most-watched animated series premiere. Here are 4 things that the series does amazingly well that you can apply to your projects.
1. Complex character development: The show explores each character’s complicated personalities and backgrounds, making them relatable and multi-dimensional. So, take time to create heroic characters, understand their motivations, and outline their growth throughout the story.
2. Intricate plot lines: The series masterfully intertwines complex narratives, keeping audiences engaged and on the edge of their seats. Prioritize storyboarding to ensure that multiple storylines complement each other and converge to a satisfying conclusion for audiences.
3. Bold themes: the series explores thought-provoking themes, ranging from discrimination to personal identity. For your projects to stand out, challenge your audience by highlighting innovative topics and conflicts in your storytelling.
4. Stunning visuals and animation: The series showcases impressive visuals and vibrant animation that enhance the narrative. Leverage cutting-edge technology and animation, even in live-action projects, to bring your visions to life and create visually captivating experiences.
Final thoughts
X-Men ’97 is more than just a TV show revival – it’s a reminder that animation is a powerful medium that transcends age barriers. The dedication of the voice cast of X-Men ’97 and the impactful narratives leave lasting impressions on global audiences, inspiring a new generation of filmmakers and storytellers.
So, once you’ve finalized your project’s concept, work with the skilled voice actors on Voice123 to breathe life into it. Or hire our Managed Services to oversee your entire project.
It’s time to embrace the win and join the next generation of X-Men storytellers!
FAQs
The first season premiered on Disney+ on March 20, 2024, with episodes being released weekly, and the second and third seasons are already being developed.
It’s available from March 20, 2024, on Disney+.
Yes, the original cast members reprise their roles except for Norm Spencer and David Hemblem, who died in 2020. Ray Chase will replace Spencer and voice Scott Summers, and Matthew Waterson will replace Hamblen as Erik Lehnsherr.
