LEAKED: X-Men ’97 Digs Deep Into Comic History for Surprise Villain

X-Men ’97 Brings Back Obscure Villain With Intriguing Potential

As much as I break chops about this show, make no mistake, I will be watching as a fan. And as a fan I hope it entertains. I am rooting for this show to win me over.

The highly-anticipated X-Men ’97 is set to revive the beloved Saturday morning cartoon on Disney+, bringing with it the signature elements fans adored: epic multi-part stories, a diverse array of villains, and of course, must-have tie-in action figures. But amidst the nostalgia, the show is also introducing a lesser-known comic book character – The X-Cutioner. This obscure antagonist brings a dark twist that could add an intriguing dimension to the latest mutant saga.

Surprisingly, one of the first ’97 action figures announced is none other than The X-Cutioner, alter ego of FBI agent Carl Denti. Driven to become a vigilante mutant hunter after witnessing the destruction left in the X-Men’s wake, Denti’s backstory provides a compelling foundation for a villain. Despite only appearing in 22 Marvel comic issues, The X-Cutioner is poised for a comeback in X-Men ’97.

Making his debut in Uncanny X-Men Annual #17 (April 1993), The X-Cutioner initially served as a walking highlight reel, donning gear and weapons of past X-Men foes, primarily alien tech in the comics. However, his action figure sports a menacing lance and arm cannon, hinting at a formidable threat.

It seems fitting that The X-Cutioner will clash with the X-Men in the Season 1 finale, as Marvel revealed the three-part arc titled “Tolerance is Extinction” – a succinct encapsulation of the villain’s ethos.

While The X-Cutioner may be an unexpected choice for X-Men ’97, the series heavily leans into nostalgia and lore. As a walking collection of Easter eggs, his villain-inspired arsenal could weave together episodes from both X-Men ’97 and its animated predecessor.

Moreover, his motivations suggest Marvel is reinforcing a classic X-Men theme: political fearmongering and anti-mutant prejudice hindering the greater good. This narrative thread runs through the comics’ recent Fall of X event and the MCU’s exploration of anti-alien sentiment in Secret Invasion. It’s an integral part of the X-Men mythos, and this villain’s presence affirms its enduring relevance.

The X-Cutioner embodies Disney+’s approach to introducing the X-Men to a new generation while captivating longtime fans. By incorporating familiar elements and unearthing hidden gems, the series offers something for everyone. And for newcomers, the straightforward premise of “a guy who wants to stop the X-Men” should be easily accessible.