X-men '97 comic continues animated series' story

Fans have long awaited the return of the animated seriesX-Men '97, and the wait is nearly over. Marvel Comics is expanding the animated universe with a new five-issue comic book spinoff, X-Men '97: Season Two, set to launch on June 3, 2026.

Comic bridges gap between seasons

The comic serves as a bridge between the first season's dramatic finale and the upcoming second season of the animated series. Following the Season 1 finale, which saw the X-Men scattered across time and Forge assembling a new team, the comic picks up the threads left dangling. The first issue, illustrated by Todd Nauck, heavily features the fate of the missing X-Men, a detail immediately apparent on the cover.

Based on the cover art, the initial storyline will likely focus on Forge, Jubilee, Sunspot, and Bishop, with the potential for Forge to recruit additional mutant allies. Steve Foxe returns as writer, alongside Salva Espin on art. The first issue boasts covers from Todd Nauck, Jhony Caballero, Natacha Bustos, and Dan Jurgens.

The release of X-Men '97: Season Two #1 coincides with anticipation for the second season of the animated series, suggesting a coordinated rollout. IGN previously lauded the first season as one of the best X-Men adaptations to date. This comic offers a deeper dive into the narrative and character development that fans crave, extending the story beyond the confines of the television screen. The visual style remains consistent with the animated series, ensuring a cohesive experience for viewers and readers alike.

Preorders for X-Men '97: Season Two #1 are available now at local comic shops. This expansion demonstrates Marvel's commitment to enriching the X-Men mythology across multiple platforms. The series' success underscores the enduring appeal of this iteration of the iconic team.